Filipino-owned restaurant in St. Louis, Missouri named one of the best new restaurants in 2023
Photo from thefattenedcaf/Instagram
Filipino culinary traditions have found a home in the United States as chefs and restaurateurs bring their authentic recipes and innovative twists to American cities.
And in a landscape already rich in Filipino culinary offerings, The Fattened Caf distinguishes itself not only through its signature Filipino-style barbecue but also by championing a narrative that transcends the boundaries of tradition.
While many Filipino restaurants focus on preserving age-old recipes, the restaurant takes a bold step forward by infusing its menu with the personal and diverse backgrounds of its owners, who come from different nationalities.
Darren Young, an African American, and Charlene Lopez-Young, a Filipino American, embrace the fusion of their own cultural influences and have struck a chord with customers who seek not only the authenticity of Filipino flavors but also a taste of the dynamic identities shaping the menu.
As a result, The Fattened Caf was tagged by Feast Magazine as one of the Best New Restaurants in 2023.
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“Maaaannnnn we don’t even know what to say or how to act. This is seriously one of the best things to ever happen in our lives (besides getting married and having our beautiful babies hahahaha),” the team took to Instagram to express their gratitude.
“We are thrilled of all the fruits growing out of our passions and hard work.”
The magazine noted some of the restaurant standouts, such as their housemade slow-smoked Spam with red cabbage archaea, jackfruit adobo, and Filipino-style smoked longganisa, describing them as well-made and true to the couple’s creative identity.
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In addition, they also serve Filipino barbecue, a refreshing ube latte, and ube buns.
The Fattened Caf is also a cultural hub
More than just a restaurant, The Fattened Caf is also a cultural hub, where diverse backgrounds converge over shared meals and experiences.
Lopez-Young established the Filipina Collective in February, an informal network that aims to bring together Filipinas in the surrounding areas. In the future, she envisions it evolving into an organization that promotes representation and the identities of Filipina women.
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Moreover, the conscious effort to become an integral part of the community reflects the couple’s commitment to creating a welcoming space for everyone, and they do this by hiring students and fostering connections.
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In an era where labor practices are under scrutiny, the couple’s decision to pay well above minimum wage and provide voluntary insurance and therapy sessions speaks volumes about their dedication to the well-being of their team.
As they continue to redefine the narrative of Filipino cuisine in the US, they not only contribute to the preservation of Filipino flavors but also exemplify the evolving nature of culinary identity—a journey that truly makes them one of the best restaurants in Cherokee St, St. Louis, Missouri.
