Discover San Diego’s Vibrant Filipino Food Scene: Explore the New Exhibit Highlighting Culinary Treasures

Today on Midday Edition, we’re diving into the vibrant Filipino food scene in San Diego. This culture-rich cuisine goes beyond the well-known dishes like pancit and lumpia. There’s an exciting new exhibit at the San Diego History Center showcasing Filipino food and its roots in our community. It offers visitors a taste of history along with delicious meals.

Tina Zargarpur, the Vice President of Community Engagement at the San Diego History Center, and Joe Mazar, chair of the Council of Filipino American Organizations (Ko Pao), join us to discuss this exhibit. The Taste San Diego series started two years ago, highlighting different aspects of local culture. After showcasing craft beer, it’s now celebrating Filipino culinary journeys.

The goal is to deepen the understanding of Filipino cuisine by showcasing its history, contemporary influences, and the people behind it. Tina mentions how they incorporate community input into the exhibit. They aim to reflect the diverse Filipino culture in San Diego, which has evolved from its beginnings as an immigrant community to a thriving culinary presence.

Joe elaborates that they want to feature lesser-known stories, like local chefs branching out into craft brewing and family-run businesses that have gained international recognition. For instance, the family-run lumpia business started in National City but now supplies bases worldwide, showing the reach of Filipino culinary traditions.

Many might not realize Filipino food’s connection to broader Asian influences, shaped by over 7,000 islands and diverse cultures. Joe highlights that even popular dishes like adobo can taste very different based on family recipes, emphasizing the rich variety within the cuisine.

Statistics reveal that over 60% of Asian Americans in San Diego identify as Filipino, further enriching the local cultural tapestry. Interest in Filipino food is also experiencing a resurgence nationally, having been spotlighted by food personalities like Anthony Bourdain a decade ago.

The exhibit aims to educate visitors about Filipino culture while also providing a community-oriented experience. It includes not just exhibits but also food tastings featuring local beverages and dishes—such as ube-flavored ginger beer. Get ready to taste something unique, as these tastings will showcase local businesses.

Beyond just food, the exhibit seeks to evoke pride in Filipino heritage, especially among the younger generation. Joe hopes this project inspires conversations about their rich history—some of which dates back to the Spanish galleons—often overlooked in schools. It’s a chance for everyone to connect with their roots and honor their families’ stories.

For those who want to dive deeper into the culinary traditions and the evolving Filipino identity in San Diego, the exhibit invites you to explore, taste, and celebrate this fascinating culture.

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