In April 2019, I was fortunate enough to explore the deep-rooted heritage of San Jacinto Panciteria—a name that has symbolized genuine Chinese-Filipino dishes across generations. Back then, the eatery survived merely as hushed memories and nostalgic recollections since its Delta outlet shut down 16 years earlier. Nevertheless, Juliet Bato, the third-generation caretaker of this century-old establishment, ensured continuity. Through events like bazaars, mobile stands, and virtual kitchens, she maintained the tradition, making sure that the tastes from her youth still gratified those seeking a bite reminiscent of times gone by.
Today, her path has led back to where she started. San Jacinto Panciteria has once again opened its doors in a brick-and-mortar space at One Raffles Place, along Congressional Avenue. To Juliet, this establishment isn’t merely a dining spot; it’s an homage to her dad, her forebears, and all those countless families who have savored their dinners and created cherished moments around San Jacinto’s legendary tables.
A promise fulfilled
Reopening this eatery was a quiet pledge to my dad and the team who remained loyal even after we shut down our location in Delta.
When the Delta office shut down, numerous tales and speculations arose regarding the fate of our family enterprise," Juliet recounted. "My aim is merely to uphold our family’s heritage and safeguard the history and recollections of this 130-year-old label established by my forebears.
Bringing back a restaurant of such scale wasn’t easy. Although Juliet was adept at managing food carts and ghost kitchens, overseeing a comprehensive dine-in establishment demanded new expertise. “This isn’t merely about providing meals and designing an appealing environment; it involves establishing effective processes, extensive training, ongoing study, plenty of good wishes, and guaranteeing excellent service for customers,” she said.
At first, she thought about upgrading the dining ambiance and turning the new eatery into an elegant, contemporary venue. However, during this planning phase, she came to understand something crucial: "It dawned on me that maintaining simplicity was key—I recalled how things were at the Delta location—a plain old Panciteria serving delicious meals."
The latest residence of San Jacinto
Selecting the ideal venue turned out to be quite an adventure. "During the last three years, I have looked into multiple locations, yet nothing fulfilled my requirements—until recently," Juliet mentions about her site on Congressional Avenue. "Although this area is currently compact, all journeys must start with a single step."
The reaction was nothing less than astounding. “When various individuals repeatedly share similar tales, it feels like a scratched record,” she chuckled. “However, truthfully, I enjoy listening to the wonderful experiences they had at the Delta branch—how their families relished the cuisine through the years.”
As for our new customers? "Many have returned to eat with us again, and I sincerely hope this trend continues."
The tastes that continually draw customers back
San Jacinto has long been known for its signature dishes — Pancit Canton, Asado, Pata Jamon, and Camarons — all of which remain at the heart of the menu. While Juliet has introduced a few new dishes to appeal to a younger market, she remains committed to preserving the authenticity that made the restaurant a household name.
"We stand out by staying true to our 130-year-old legacy while evolving to meet modern tastes," she said. "We focus on preserving traditional flavors that have been passed down for generations, ensuring authenticity in every dish. At the same time, we introduce new offerings to appeal to younger customers while maintaining the comforting, home-style experience that families have loved for decades."
Lessons from the past, eyes on the future
One lesson Juliet has carried from her father's time? The importance of being present. "There's something special about walking into a restaurant and seeing the owner personally engaged in assisting customers," she says. "That's exactly how I want to run my business — being hands-on and ensuring we serve high-quality food at affordable prices."
As for what's next? "There are plans to expand in the future, maybe the south area," she shares with a smile. "New dishes will come, and I hope to start with at least one more branch in the next two years."
Taking the reins of a restaurant that has been around since 1894 comes with its pressures. When asked on how she intends to keep its legacy alive, Juliet took a moment to think, "Some customers compare the old with the new, which is beyond my control. My focus is simply on proving that the quality and taste remain the same — if not better."
Juliet credits her mother and family for their unwavering support through this journey. "I'm currently the third-generation owner, and I thank my mom and family for the support they have given me."
And to the next generation of diners? "Fads will come and go, but it's still cool to eat traditional Chinese-Filipino food," she said.
Juliet's vision for San Jacinto Panciteria is clear: "I want to open more branches, and for each one to continue telling our story."
This story — a legacy of resilience, family, and a love for good food — is far from over. It is only just beginning again.