In April 2019, I had the privilege of delving into the rich history of San Jacinto Panciteria — a name that, for generations, had been synonymous with authentic Chinese-Filipino cuisine. At the time, the restaurant existed only in whispers and nostalgia, its Delta branch having closed 16 years prior. But Juliet Bato, the third-generation steward of this 130-year-old institution, never let the flame die out. She kept the legacy alive through bazaars, food stalls, and cloud kitchens, ensuring that the flavors of her childhood continued to reach diners who longed for a taste of the past.
Today, her journey has come full circle. San Jacinto Panciteria has finally reopened its doors in a physical location at One Raffles Place, Congressional Avenue. For Juliet, this is not just a restaurant — it is a tribute to her father, her ancestors, and the thousands of families who have shared meals and memories over San Jacinto's storied tables.
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