Yesterday, we decided to head out to SM City Clark in Pampanga for a little family outing and, of course, some good food. The mall was packed—way more crowded than we expected for this time of year. Honestly, it felt busier than the Christmas season! Even the coffee shops were full, so we ended up heading straight to the food court.
We settled on a place called Purple Pad Thai. The name caught our attention, and the food didn’t disappoint. First up was their fried rice with chicken. Let me tell you, it was my absolute favorite. The rice was perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of seasoning, and the chicken on top was tender and flavorful. The little garnish of green onions added a nice pop of color and taste. It was comforting and satisfying—definitely the star of the meal for me.
We also tried their fried rice with seafood topping. While it was similar to the chicken version, the seafood added a different vibe. Fresh and a bit briny, it was a nice option, but I still preferred the chicken. Maybe I’m just a sucker for simple, hearty flavors.
Another dish we ordered was the spring rolls. They came neatly packed in a box with fresh lettuce, cucumbers, and pickled vegetables on the side. The rolls were crispy and golden, filled with a delicious savory mix. The dipping sauce—oh, it was creamy and had a subtle tang that paired perfectly with the rolls. Definitely a must-try if you ever stop by.
Then there was the soup: Tom Yum. Now, I’ve heard a lot about Tom Yum being the ultimate Thai soup, but this one was a bit too sour for my taste. Don’t get me wrong, the flavors were bold and well-balanced with the spices and fresh herbs, but after a few sips, the sourness started to overpower everything else. I guess it’s an acquired taste. My family seemed to enjoy it more than I did, though.
The whole experience was fun despite the crowd. It’s always great to spend time with family over good food. Purple Pad Thai was a solid choice, and I’d go back just for that chicken fried rice. If you ever find yourself at SM City Clark, give it a try! Just be prepared for the hustle and bustle—it’s Pampanga, after all. They know how to keep things lively!
Keep learning and exploring! Always be curious and never stop learning new things.
