Better Futures Episode 9

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Better Futures Episode 9: Preserving Filipino Traditions at Sari-Sari

In Episode 9 of Better Futures with Beto Altamirano, we step into the world of Camille and Adrian De Los Reyes, the proud owners of Sari-Sari Filipino Restaurant, Market, & Bakery in San Antonio, Texas. This episode explores the unique journey of the De Los Reyes family as they carry forward their legacy of celebrating Filipino culture through food. From the bustling streets of San Antonio to the vibrant markets of the Philippines, Sari-Sari is not just a restaurant—it’s a bridge connecting generations and communities through the flavors of tradition.

A Legacy Rooted in Family and Community

The story of Sari-Sari began in the Valenzuela family garage, where Adam and Imelda Valenzuela started their small oriental market, offering Filipino products to the local community. Their mission was simple: to create a space where Filipino-Americans in San Antonio could reconnect with their roots.

In 1995, the family expanded, opening the first official Sari-Sari location to better serve the growing demand. Not long after, they launched a Filipino restaurant next door, bringing traditional recipes to life. The restaurant quickly gained recognition as one of San Antonio’s first Filipino dining spots. By 1998, they had introduced a bakery that offered fresh Filipino delicacies, desserts, and pastries, making Sari-Sari a cornerstone for the local Filipino community.

Today, their daughter Camille and her husband Adrian have taken the reins, continuing the mission that Adam and Imelda began. Under their leadership, Sari-Sari has blossomed into more than just a restaurant—it’s a hub for cultural celebration and education.

The Essence of Filipino Food and Hospitality

At Sari-Sari, every dish has a story. Camille and Adrian have made it their mission to bring authentic Filipino flavors to the forefront, honoring the recipes passed down through generations. With dishes like Crispy Pata (crispy pork hock), Kare-Kare (oxtail stew with peanut sauce), and Pandesal (Filipino bread rolls), the menu is a delicious tribute to their heritage.

But their work goes beyond food. For Camille and Adrian, Sari-Sari is a way to connect people to the richness of Filipino culture. “We are part of a generation that wants to put our food on the map and bring awareness to our culture,” they share. “To honor what our parents worked so hard to preserve and pass down.”

The name “Sari-Sari,” which means “good variety,” is a reflection of the diversity and vibrancy of Filipino cuisine. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the experience. Guests are welcomed with warmth and treated like family, embodying the essence of Filipino hospitality.

Reconnecting with Roots: A Journey to the Philippines

In this episode of Better Futures, Camille and Adrian reflect on a transformative trip to the Philippines they took last year. For them, it wasn’t just a culinary adventure—it was a deeply personal journey to reconnect with their heritage.

Traveling through bustling markets and small villages, they sought out the flavors and traditions that make Filipino cuisine so unique. They returned with a renewed commitment to authenticity, bringing the true essence of Filipino cooking back to San Antonio.

The trip also deepened their appreciation for the role food plays in preserving culture. By infusing their menu with these authentic flavors and techniques, Camille and Adrian ensure that Sari-Sari remains a beacon of Filipino heritage for future generations.

Celebrating Filipino Culture During AAPI Heritage Month

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (AAPI), a time to celebrate the rich histories and diverse cultures of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. For Camille and Adrian, this month is an opportunity to honor their roots and share their culture with the San Antonio community.

Through their work at Sari-Sari, they bring Filipino food into the spotlight, encouraging more people to experience the flavors and stories that make it so special. Their efforts reflect a larger movement within the AAPI community to showcase the contributions and traditions of Asian cultures in the United States.

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Creating a Space for Connection and Belonging

Sari-Sari is more than just a place to eat—it’s a gathering space where people come together to celebrate food, culture, and community. Camille and Adrian are deeply committed to fostering this sense of connection.

Their work extends beyond the restaurant, as they actively engage with the local community through events and collaborations. By sharing their story and their food, they inspire others to embrace their own cultural identities and celebrate the richness of diversity.

What’s Next for Sari-Sari?

As they look to the future, Camille and Adrian are focused on continuing to honor their parents’ legacy while pushing the boundaries of what Filipino food can be. They are passionate about bringing Filipino cuisine into mainstream conversations, showing the world that it deserves a seat at the table.

Through their work at Sari-Sari and their participation in initiatives like Better Futures, they are helping to shape a more inclusive and vibrant San Antonio.

Join the Journey

In Episode 9 of Better Futures with Beto Altamirano, Camille and Adrian De Los Reyes take us on a journey through the heart of Filipino culture, sharing their story and their vision for the future.

From the family recipes that built Sari-Sari to their mission of bringing Filipino food to the forefront, this episode is a celebration of heritage, community, and the power of food to bring people together.

Watch the full episode and join us at The Down Market as we continue to celebrate the stories that shape our communities.

Visit Sari-Sari

Follow Sari-Sari on Instagram (@sarisarisatx) and experience the flavors of Filipino culture for yourself. Don’t forget to try their famous Crispy Pata—it’s a favorite for a reason!

#BetterFutures #TheDownMarket #SariSari #FilipinoFood #SanAntonioDining #AAPIHeritageMonth

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