Tiki on 18th owners reintroduce Filipino cuisine on ‘Great Day Washington’

Photo from greatdaywash/Instagram

In celebration of Filipino American History Month, Filipino restaurant Tiki on 18th made a star appearance on a recent episode of “Great Day Washington.”

This charismatic eatery owned by Jojo and Christina Valenzuela earned a Rammy Aaward for being a “Favorite Gathering Place.”

Jojo, a seasoned bartender originally from Cainta, had long dreamt of bringing Filipino flavors to the forefront. During the “Great Day Washington” episode, Jojo demonstrated how to prepare pinais na bacalao. This signature dish features cod steamed in banana leaves. A dish not commonly found on many restaurant menus, Jojo’s aim was to offer something unique and intriguing to diners and one  that would prompt curious customers to visit Tiki on 18th.

“I wanted to put something out that people would like, see that, and [say] ‘What’s that? I’ve never seen that. Because people know about adobo, lumpia, and pancit,” Jojo said.

Christina Valenzuela also introduced one of her creations: the ube cheesecake, which pays tribute to the purple yam jam. While pinais na bacalao and ube cheesecake are just two highlights from Tiki on 18th’s menu, the restaurant offers a wide range of Filipino-inspired dishes.

From starters like bacalao al ajillo, Pinoy chicken wings, and beef tapa skewers to sizzling plates of bulalo steak, spicy pork sisig, and spicy vegan sisig, the Tiki on 18th menu is a spectacular showcase of the peaks of Filipino food.

As the Valenzuelas continue to share their love for Filipino food and culture, Tiki on 18th becomes a delightful destination for those seeking a unique and flavorful dining experience. 

Watch the episode here: