Few things evoke as much comfort and joy as a warm plate of Lucky Me! Pancit Canton, don’t you think? For countless Filipinos, it’s more than just a quick fix—it’s a flavorful slice of home. From the nostalgia of carefree childhood afternoons to the laughter-filled late-night cravings shared with friends, this iconic dish has been a cherished staple in Filipino households since its debut in 1989.
Now, Lucky Me! Pancit Canton is earning international recognition. The New York Times’ product-review arm, Wirecutter, recently named the Kalamansi Pancit Canton one of the 16 Best Instant Noodles—a proud moment for a proudly Filipino brand.
According to Wirecutter’s Marilyn Ong, the Kalamansi Pancit Canton stood out for its irresistible flavors. “Sure, it’s a small serving, but the quiet mmm’s and ahh’s were telling,” she shared, noting how quickly the noodles disappeared from the bowl.
What makes it special?
It’s all in the seasoning. The dry seasoning, soy sauce, and oil packets combine to create a perfect blend of light soy and the vibrant zest of kalamansi. Ong also praised the noodles’ unique texture, “Skinnier and more extra-curly than your standard cheap ramen… almost fluffy. Cute!”
Ong noted that Pancit Canton comes in smaller packs compared to other noodles, so for those with bigger appetites, she suggests cooking more than one pack to satisfy their cravings.
Lucky Me! Pancit Canton wasn’t the only standout on Wirecutter’s list. However, Wirecutter noted that this list represents only a fraction of the vast world of instant noodles, with thousands of varieties left unexplored. Other notable mentions included NongShim Shin Black Noodle Soup, Nongshim Neoguri, Indomie Mi Goreng, Mama Shrimp Tom Yum, and Samyang Buldak Quattro Cheese.
From being a comfort food staple in Filipino homes to gaining recognition globally, Lucky Me! Pancit Canton proves that anyone can enjoy this iconic instant food anywhere.
To explore the complete list, visit the full list of Wirecutter’s The Best Instant Noodles here.
