Filipino Wedding Glossary › Lauriat
Lauriat
Pronunciation: low-ree-AHT
Origin: Hokkien Chinese, multi-course banquet observed in Tsinoy (Chinese-Filipino) wedding receptions
A multi-course Chinese-Filipino banquet, typically 8 to 10 dishes, served at the wedding reception.
A lauriat is the multi-course Chinese banquet hosted at Tsinoy weddings. The number of courses (often 8 or 10) and the specific dishes carry symbolic meaning around prosperity, longevity, and unity.
Common courses include suckling pig, fish, lobster or shrimp, noodles for longevity, and a sweet finale. Menus vary by family, regional ancestry (most Tsinoy families trace to Hokkien Fujian), and venue.
Lauriat is distinct from a Western reception dinner. The dishes are shared family-style, with toasts (yam seng) interspersed between courses.