Chowking (Cerritos, California, United States)
Savour the blend of Filipino and Chinese flavours at Chowking in Cerritos, offering iconic Lauriat meals, halo-halo, and comfort food for Filipinos abroad. ✨ A taste of home at #Chowking! From crispy fried chicken to sweet and savoury honey walnut shrimp, every bite brought back memories. And let’s not forget the halo-halo—always a must! Who else misses these flavours? #FilipinoFoodAdventure
For many Filipinos abroad, there are a few names that instantly evoke a sense of nostalgia and home. Chowking is undoubtedly one of them. On our recent visit to Los Angeles, I made it a point to stop by the Chowking in Cerritos—a cherished tradition for me whenever I’m in a country lucky enough to have one. Since Chowking isn’t available in New Zealand, each visit feels like a warm embrace of familiar tastes and childhood memories.
Chowking, founded in 1985 by Robert Kuan, introduced a unique blend of Filipino and Chinese flavours that quickly made it a household name in the Philippines. From their beloved Lauriat dishes to the refreshing halo-halo, Chowking has long been a go-to spot for comfort food. For Filipinos like me, dining at Chowking abroad is more than a meal—it’s a moment to reconnect with our roots.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Chowking’s Lauriat meals used to be a personal favourite back in the late ’80s and ’90s. I vividly remember when they were served on real plates, complete with a selection of pancit, siomai, lumpia, rice, crackers, and buchi—all surrounding your choice of main dish like sweet and sour pork or fried chicken. It was a feast on a plate! Though some things have changed, the charm and flavours remain intact.
This time, I was thrilled to revisit those cherished flavours with my family. We arrived in the late afternoon, ready for a snack-turned-feast. Here’s what we enjoyed:
Halo-Halo ($6.99): Still as incredible as ever. This iconic Filipino dessert combines shaved ice, sweetened beans, fruits, jelly, and leche flan in a colourful medley of textures and flavours. While it’s now served in a paper cup, the taste is just as I remember—rich, creamy, and utterly refreshing.
Lauriat Meals:
1 Entree ($10.99): Sweet and sour pork served with pancit canton, rice, and buchi. The pork was tender and saucy, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
2 Entrees ($12.99): Honey walnut shrimp and two pieces of Chinese-style fried chicken, alongside pancit canton, rice, and buchi. The walnut shrimp stood out with its sweet-savory sauce, while the chicken was crispy with a light batter—possibly a mix of flour and tapioca starch.
4 pcs Siomai ($4.29): Juicy and flavourful, these dumplings paired perfectly with the soy-vinegar dipping sauce.
The Chowking Experience
While some aspects of Chowking have evolved over the years—like the use of paper cups and a slightly simplified Lauriat—the heart of their dishes remains unchanged. The food arrived hot and delicious, with quick service and generous portions. The buchi, though smaller than I recall, was still satisfying, and the pancit canton transported me straight back to the Philippines with its classic taste.
What sets Chowking apart is its ability to evoke memories and create new ones, all while offering incredible value. The Cerritos location, with its accessible location and refillable drinks, provided a convenient and welcoming spot to enjoy a taste of home.
Why You Should Visit Chowking
Whether it’s the nostalgia of the Lauriat, the indulgence of honey walnut shrimp, or the refreshing sweetness of halo-halo, Chowking offers a culinary escape into the flavours of the Philippines. It’s a place where Filipino and Chinese traditions blend seamlessly, creating dishes that feel both familiar and exciting.
For Filipinos living abroad, Chowking is more than just a fast-food chain—it’s a slice of home. For those who have never tried it, it’s a chance to experience the rich and diverse flavours of Filipino Chinese cuisine. If you find yourself near a Chowking, don’t miss the opportunity to stop by.
As for me, Chowking remains a beloved part of my journey, a constant reminder of where I’ve come from and the flavours that continue to shape my story.
Note: This trip took place before the devastating January 2025 California Wildfires. It breaks my heart to see what has unfolded earlier this year. We are profoundly saddened by the impact these wildfires have had on your community. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones during this incredibly challenging period.
Chowking
Address: 17312 Norwalk Blvd, Cerritos, CA 90703, United States
Phone: +1 562-207-9505
Website: https://www.chowkingusa.com/
