Lucky Foods in Filipino Culture: Traditional Dishes for Good Fortune and Prosperity

Last Updated on February 17, 2025 by Ed Joven

Filipinos have a deep-rooted belief in luck, which is often reflected in their traditions, rituals, and even their cuisine. Many turn to lucky charms, rituals, and specific foods to invite good fortune into their lives. In Filipino culture, certain dishes and ingredients are believed to attract prosperity, wealth, and success—making them a meaningful part of celebrations, gatherings, or moments when hope and positivity are sought.

This belief in luck extends to various aspects of life, including activities like Philippine online gambling, where players often incorporate cultural superstitions into their routines. However, beyond this, the practice of seeking luck through food is a cherished tradition that brings people together.

Whether it’s for special occasions, personal milestones, or simply to bring positivity, Filipinos enjoy incorporating "lucky foods" into their meals. These dishes are often shared with family and friends, adding a sense of togetherness and optimism to any event.

Jump to:

• Pancit – Longevity and Continuous Luck
• Lechon – Prosperity and Wealth
• Lumpia – Rolls of Fortune
• Malagkit (Sticky Rice Dishes) – Luck that Sticks
• Fish – Flowing Prosperity
• Eggs – New Beginnings and Fortune
• Round Fruits – Wealth and Success
• Kakanin – Sweet Rewards and Good Luck
• Pineapple – Symbol of Wealth and Good Fortune
• Adobo – Stability and Strength
• Buko Juice – Fresh Beginnings and Clear Mind
• Ube – Royalty and Luck
• Bringing Luck to the Table
• 💬 Reviews

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular Filipino lucky foods and the beliefs surrounding them.

Pancit – Longevity and Continuous Luck

Pancit, like Tuna Pancit Canton a staple noodle dish in the Philippines, is synonymous with long life and continuous luck. Traditionally served on birthdays to ensure a long and prosperous life, pancit is also enjoyed during celebrations and gatherings as a symbol of unbroken fortune. The longer the noodles, the better, as they represent enduring positivity and success.

Lechon – Prosperity and Wealth

Lechon, or roasted pig, is often the centerpiece of Filipino celebrations and is associated with prosperity and abundance. Its crispy golden skin symbolizes wealth and good fortune, making it a popular dish for festive occasions. Whether served at family reunions or community feasts, lechon brings a sense of abundance and joy to any table.

Lumpia – Rolls of Fortune

Lumpia, the Filipino version of spring rolls, is thought to bring good luck due to its resemblance to gold bars. These crispy rolls signify prosperity and are a must-have at celebrations. Whether filled with vegetables, meat, or sweet ingredients, lumpia is a delicious way to invite positivity and good fortune. The most popular is Lumpiang Shanghai.

Malagkit (Sticky Rice Dishes) – Luck that Sticks

Filipino sticky rice desserts like bibingka, suman, Pandan Biko and biko symbolize good fortune that “sticks” with you. These delicacies are popular for celebrations and rituals, believed to ensure that blessings and positivity remain close. Their sweet and comforting flavors make them a favorite for both everyday treats and special occasions.

Fish – Flowing Prosperity

Fish is another lucky food in Filipino culture, representing abundance and a steady flow of wealth. Dishes like Daing na Bangus, sinigang na isda or grilled tilapia are enjoyed not only for their delicious taste but also for their symbolism of moving forward toward greater fortune. Fish is often served during family meals to bring a sense of prosperity and unity.

Eggs – New Beginnings and Fortune

Eggs are linked to rebirth, renewal, and prosperity. Whether enjoyed as Egg Caldereta, itlog na maalat (salted eggs) or balut, eggs symbolize new opportunities and wholeness. Their round shape represents completeness, making them a meaningful addition to meals during important life events or celebrations.

Round Fruits – Wealth and Success

Round fruits, such as oranges, grapes, and pomelo, are believed to attract wealth due to their coin-like shape. Many Filipinos incorporate these fruits into their meals during the New Year or other significant occasions to invite success and abundance. Their vibrant colors and refreshing flavors also add joy to any gathering.

Kakanin – Sweet Rewards and Good Luck

Kakanin, a broad category of Filipino rice-based delicacies, symbolizes unity and luck. Treats like Puto, Kutsinta, and Sapin-sapin are often served during celebrations to attract positive energy. Their sweet and satisfying flavors make them a beloved part of Filipino culinary traditions.

Pineapple – Symbol of Wealth and Good Fortune

Pineapple, locally known as "pinya," is widely associated with wealth and luck. Its golden-yellow flesh symbolizes prosperity, and its spiky crown represents authority and success. Many Filipinos place pineapples in their homes or enjoy them as part of meals to bring a sense of abundance and positivity.

Adobo – Stability and Strength

Adobo is one of the Philippines’ most iconic dishes, known for its rich flavors and ability to last long without spoiling. The resilience of adobo symbolizes stability and strength, qualities that are valued in everyday life. Its comforting taste makes it a staple in Filipino households, enjoyed during both ordinary days and special occasions.

Buko Juice – Fresh Beginnings and Clear Mind

Drinking buko (coconut) juice is thought to bring a fresh start and a clear mind. Coconuts are associated with purity and renewal, making buko juice a refreshing beverage for those seeking positivity and focus. Its natural sweetness and hydrating properties make it a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings.

Ube – Royalty and Luck

The deep purple hue of ube (purple yam) represents royalty, luxury, and good luck. Ube-based desserts like Ube Crema de Fruta, Ube Halaya and Ube Ice Cream are enjoyed not only for their rich flavor but also for their symbolism of success and abundance. These treats are a delightful way to add a touch of elegance and positivity to any occasion.

Bringing Luck to the Table

Filipino culture is rich with traditions that celebrate luck, prosperity, and togetherness. Whether it’s a plate of pancit for long-lasting luck, a bite of bibingka to keep fortune close, or a slice of lechon to symbolize abundance, these dishes offer both cultural significance and delicious flavors. By incorporating these lucky foods into meals, Filipinos honor their heritage and invite positivity into their lives.