April is Filipino Food Month: A Celebration of Culture and Cuisine
April is Filipino Food Month: Discover the Flavors of the Philippines
April is a special time to celebrate the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Philippines during Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino. For those in the United States who may not be familiar with Filipino cuisine, this is the perfect opportunity to dive into the vibrant flavors, unique dishes, and warm culture that Filipino food represents. Whether you’re a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure or simply curious about global cuisines, Filipino Food Month offers a feast for all your senses.
What is Filipino Food Month?
Filipino Food Month was established in 2018 as a national celebration in the Philippines to preserve and promote its culinary heritage. It’s not just about food—it’s about history, culture, and the stories behind every dish. For Filipinos and food lovers worldwide, April is a time to spotlight the unique flavors of the Philippines and share them with a global audience.
Why You Should Explore Filipino Cuisine
Filipino food is a delicious blend of influences from around the world—Spanish, Chinese, Malay, and American cultures have all shaped its flavors. What makes it special is how these influences are combined with indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques to create something uniquely Filipino.
Here are some must-try dishes to get you started:
Adobo: A savory and tangy dish made with meat, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. Often called the national dish of the Philippines, it’s a comforting introduction to Filipino flavors.
Sinigang: A sour soup made with tamarind, vegetables, and your choice of protein. It’s a dish that warms your heart and your taste buds.
Ube Desserts: Vibrant purple yam-based treats like cakes, ice cream, and pastries that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
Lumpia: Crispy spring rolls filled with savory meat or vegetables, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Lechon: A whole roasted pig with crispy skin and tender meat, often the star of Filipino celebrations.
How to Celebrate Filipino Food Month in the U.S.
Filipino Food Month is all about discovering, sharing, and celebrating the flavors of the Philippines. Here’s how you can join in:
1. Explore Local Filipino Restaurants
Many Filipino restaurants across the U.S. are participating in promotions and special events for Filipino Food Month. Consider visiting a local spot to try classic dishes or modern twists on traditional recipes. If you’re in San Antonio, Texas, keep an eye out for Adobo Throwdown’s Digital Passport Promotion. This initiative encourages diners to check into participating Filipino restaurants and share their experiences online, promoting these businesses and their delicious offerings.
2. Cook Filipino Food at Home
Filipino food is approachable and fun to make! Start with simple recipes like chicken adobo or lumpia. Many grocery stores now carry Filipino sauces, mixes, and ingredients to help you recreate these flavors in your kitchen.
3. Attend Filipino Food Events
Events like food festivals, cooking competitions, and cultural showcases are fantastic ways to immerse yourself in Filipino cuisine and culture. For example, Adobo Throwdown is a Filipino food festival that celebrates the country’s most iconic dishes. While the next major event is in October 2025, the festival’s online presence and promotions allow you to participate in the celebration year-round.
4. Support Filipino Farmers and Producers
Behind every delicious dish are the farmers and producers who grow the ingredients. By purchasing Filipino products and supporting these communities, you’re contributing to the preservation of Filipino culinary traditions.
5. Share Your Experience Online
Spread the word about Filipino food by sharing your meals and experiences on social media. Use hashtags like #FilipinoFoodMonth to join the global conversation and inspire others to explore the cuisine.
Adobo Throwdown: A Festival of Filipino Flavors
As part of Filipino Food Month, Adobo Throwdown is proud to celebrate Filipino cuisine and culture through events, promotions, and community initiatives. Our mission is to create a recognizable footprint for Filipino food in the U.S., starting right here in San Antonio, Texas. By supporting Filipino restaurants and raising funds for humanitarian causes, we’re helping to ensure that Filipino food continues to thrive and gain the recognition it deserves.
Why Filipino Food Month Matters
For those who are new to Filipino cuisine, this celebration is more than just a food festival—it’s a cultural experience. Filipino food is a reflection of the country’s history, resilience, and creativity. It’s about bringing people together, whether through a shared meal, a cooking class, or a community event.
By exploring Filipino food, you’re not just discovering new flavors—you’re connecting with the stories and traditions of a culture that values family, community, and hospitality.
Celebrate with Us
This April, take a bite out of something new and celebrate Filipino Food Month with us. Whether you’re dining out, cooking at home, or attending a festival, you’re helping to shine a spotlight on the incredible flavors and stories of Filipino cuisine.
What’s your first Filipino dish going to be? Share your thoughts, photos, and experiences with us on social media. Let’s make this Filipino Food Month unforgettable!