Filipina Trailblazers Revolutionizing the Food Industry

The culinary world is no stranger to innovation, but some of the most groundbreaking transformations are being led by Filipina women who have skillfully blended tradition with modernity. From reimagining beloved Filipino flavors to spearheading global culinary movements, these Filipinas are reshaping how the world experiences Filipino cuisine. Here’s a closer look at a few of these inspiring figures and their contributions to the food scene.

Susie Quesada: Redefining Filipino Presence in U.S. Groceries

As the president of Ramar Foods, Susie Quesada has not only expanded the reach of Filipino ingredients but also elevated brands like Magnolia Ice Cream to mainstream recognition. By rebranding and increasing the availability of Filipino products in U.S. groceries, she has introduced the flavors of the Philippines to new audiences, breaking barriers in food distribution and representation.

Cristeta Comerford: Bringing Filipino Roots to the White House

Cristeta Comerford made history as the first woman and Asian to serve as the White House Executive Chef. Over the course of her career, she has cooked for five U.S. presidents and countless global leaders at state dinners. By infusing Filipino elements into her dishes, Comerford has shown how food can communicate love, care, and cultural pride on the world’s biggest stages.

Adrienne Borlongan: Reinventing Ice Cream with Filipino Flavors

As the co-founder of Wanderlust Creamery, Adrienne Borlongan has crafted artisanal ice cream flavors that highlight traditional Filipino ingredients. Ube malted crunch, halo-halo, and other unique creations have captivated food enthusiasts, introducing Filipino desserts to a global audience and turning them into mainstream favorites.

Cristina Quackenbush: Southern Comfort Meets Filipino Cuisine

Cristina Quackenbush, the chef and owner of Milkfish NOLA, has artfully combined Filipino dishes with Southern soul food, creating a cuisine that’s as comforting as it is innovative. Her standout dishes, such as the Lechon Kawali Poboy, have earned her features on platforms like Netflix’sTake Out with Lisa Ling, showcasing the versatility and richness of Filipino cooking.

Maria Orosa: A War Hero’s Culinary Legacy

Long before food trends and fusion became popular, Maria Orosa was pioneering culinary innovation. A scientist and war hero, she created banana ketchup, a beloved Filipino staple, and developed nutrient-rich foods to combat malnutrition during World War II. Orosa’s inventions not only saved lives but also left an enduring mark on Filipino cuisine.

Nicole Ponseca: Elevating Filipino Dining Experiences

Nicole Ponseca, author ofI Am Filipino and This Is How We Cookand founder of celebrated restaurants like Maharlika and Jeepney, has redefined Filipino dining in New York City. By popularizing kamayan-style eating and earning accolades from the Michelin Guide andThe New York Times, she has set a new standard for Filipino food in fine dining.

Yana Gilbuena: A Kamayan Movement Across America

With her SALO Series, Yana Gilbuena brought kamayan-style Filipino pop-up dinners to all 50 U.S. states, fostering a deeper appreciation for Filipino cuisine. Her work highlights the communal spirit of Filipino food, uniting people through shared cultural experiences and the joy of eating with one’s hands.

Melissa Miranda: Comfort Food for the Pacific Northwest

Melissa Miranda has built a culinary haven for Filipino comfort food in Seattle with her restaurants Musang and Kilig. A James Beard semifinalist and celebrated restaurateur, she’s bringing the warmth of Filipino home cooking to the Pacific Northwest, connecting diners to the heart and soul of Filipino flavors.

Kelly Go: Empowering Farmers Through Chocolate

As the co-founder of Auro Chocolate, Kelly Go has turned the spotlight on the Philippines’ cacao industry. By working directly with farmers and earning international acclaim, she has not only elevated Filipino chocolate but also empowered local communities, proving that sustainability and excellence can go hand in hand.

Ginger Lim-Dimapasok: Making Ube a Star

Ginger Lim-Dimapasok, co-owner of Cafe 86, has made ube desserts a phenomenon in California. Her ube-centric creations have sparked conversations about Filipino flavors and traditions, serving as a cultural bridge and inspiring a newfound appreciation for Filipino sweets.

Abi Balingit: Remixing Filipino Desserts

Abi Balingit’s cookbook,Mayumu: Filipino American Desserts Remixed, has earned her accolades such as the 2023 Emerging Writer Award and the 2024 James Beard Emerging Voice Award. Her inventive approach to Filipino desserts reimagines traditional recipes while preserving the rich cultural heritage they represent.

Lisa Angulo Reid: Innovating with Filipino-Inspired Gummies

Lisa Angulo Reid, founder of Dear Flor, has taken Filipino flavors to new heights with the world’s first Filipino-infused vegan gummies. By introducing flavors like ube and calamansi to an untapped market, she’s educating and destigmatizing Filipino cuisine in an entirely new format.

Breaking Barriers and Building Futures

Filipina entrepreneurs like these are not just shaping the food scene—they’re redefining business itself. With women now managing 42% of businesses in the U.S. and a 114% surge in female entrepreneurship over the past two decades, these Filipina leaders are paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative future.

By amplifying Filipino flavors and culture, these women are inspiring the next generation to embrace their heritage and reimagine tradition. So, the next time you savor a bite of ube ice cream or try a kamayan-style meal, remember the trailblazers who made it possible. Support a Filipina-owned brand today and celebrate the rich history and creativity of Filipino cuisine!