Filipinos always seem to crave a taste of home away from home, as local delicacies pose a focal point for gathering and interaction. Island Pacific Market embraces this concept through its annual National Lumpia Day eating contest in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, California, last March 16-17, 2024, placing the Filipino favorite dish under its spotlight,
Instagram: @islandpacificmarket
The second installment of Island Pacific Market awarded a $500 cash prize to the contestant who consumes the most spring rolls under a minute and $250 to the runner-up, respectively. The live-streamed event on SoCal Filipinos’ Facebook group saw Alex De Vera claim the “Lumpia King” title, consuming 15 pieces of lumpia in a minute.
Sponsored by SoCal Filipinos, NutriAsia, Jufran, Magnolia, and Ramar Foods, esteemed Filipino locals headlined the event’s panel, featuring seasoned competitive eater Raina Huang (Raina is Crazy), co-producer of previous Broadway resident “Here Lies Love,” DJ Cherish TheLuv, and community leader Joe Arciaga.
Beyond its tribute to Filipino cuisine, Island Pacific Market’s tourney evidences its “bayanihan” commitment—fostering a Filipino-American inclusive community with homegrown recipes as its focal point.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and excitement at this year’s Lumpia Eating Contest,” mentioned Giselle Tongi-Walters, Island Pacific’s Communications and Community Partnership Director.
National Lumpia Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this iconic Filipino dish and bring our community together. We’d like to thank all the participants, judges, sponsors, and supporters who made this event a success,” she added.
Instagram: @islandpacificmarket
