Lucky Me! Pancit Canton Makes New York Times' Best Instant Noodles List
For a number of Filipinos, eating Lucky Me! Pancit Canton has been a way of life. There's just something delightful and comforting about its chewy noodles draped in a savory blend of oil soy sauce, and seasoning, especially if you'll consume it hot off the pan. Some enjoy it with hard-boiled or sunny-side-up eggs, with pandesal, or as part of a breakfast spread that includes tocino, longganisa, hotdogs, and garlic rice. But it's also perfect for merienda or a late-night snack just as it is.
It seems this love for Lucky Me! Pancit Canton, especially the Kalamansi variant, extends across the globe, as it even made it to the New York Times' list of the best instant noodles of 2025.
According to supervising editor Marilyn Ong, the list was compiled after consulting a panel of experts, including cookbook authors, ramen reviewers, and ramen shop owners. Naturally, the editorial team taste-tested each one.
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Lucky Me! Pancit Canton Kalamansi at the New York Times
Lucky Me! Pancit Canton Kalamansi was a standout choice in the citrusy ramen category, sharing the spotlight with Mama's Shrimp Tom Yum Noodles, a popular Thai brand. The noodles were picked as they "manage to be bright and citrusy plus homey and comforting all at once."
The other noodle categories include: beef noodle soups; for spice lovers; seafood flavors; saucy or creamy noodles; seriously extreme spice; and simple base noodles.
"Of all the noodles we’ve tested, the Pancit Canton Kalamansi disappeared from the bowl the fastest," wrote Ong. "Sure, it’s a small serving, but the quiet mmm’s and ahh’s were telling. The dry seasoning, soy sauce, and oil packets combine to produce a nuanced blend of light soy and fresh, aromatic citrus."
They also loved the fact that "the noodles are skinnier and more extra-curly than the standard cheap ramen," giving them an almost a fluffy feel. The "cuteness" of the noodles somehow added to its palatability.
Their only issue is that, although the noodles are easy on the wallet, they come in smaller packages, so one might need more than one to feel full. Perhaps the Kasalo Pack hasn't reached them?
