Today we’d like to introduce you to Cherish Joy Asuro Dobrea
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Pinoy Cravings began by selling pastries to family, friends, and through Facebook Marketplace. Over time, we transitioned to offering food after recognizing the growing demand for Filipino cuisine. Our journey began at the Winter Haven Farmers Market, Buena Market, eventually leading us to become a full-time vendor at the Downtown Lakeland Farmers Market and we’re deeply grateful for the support from Catapult, our commissary kitchen, which has played a pivotal role in shaping our business into what it is today.
We’ve also been proud participants in events organized by the Kaya community in Orlando, such as Filipino American Heritage Month, Paskuhan Night, Freedom Fest, and more. Expanding our reach, we have joined various markets around Orlando, including Milkmart, Collective Corner, Moon Mercado, and TPD Night Market.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have the support of the local community and fellow entrepreneurs in Orlando. Currently, we are focusing on an exciting new venture—a brick-and-mortar establishment under a new business name, TILAW, which will showcase Asian fusion cuisine.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Challenges and obstacles include:
Lack of Awareness About Filipino Cuisine: Filipino food is not as well-known in the community compared to other cuisines. Many people mistakenly assume our dishes are Chinese, Mexican, or Japanese. At every market, we find ourselves educating customers about the unique aspects of Filipino cuisine and how our dishes have been influenced by various cultures.
Challenges with Pop-Ups: Operating pop-ups presents limitations, as we are highly exposed to the elements. Weather can significantly impact turnout, and not every market guarantees sales, especially during unfavorable conditions.
Staffing Difficulties: Finding reliable staff is challenging because we cannot offer full-time positions, given that pop-ups and markets are seasonal.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Pinoy Cravings?
Pinoy Cravings offers sweet and savory Filipino fare, specializing in fusion dishes. We are deeply committed to our core values of “Community, Food, and Culture,” which we strive to extend not only to the owners but also to our employees and customers.
We offer event catering, wedding and private Kamayan (a traditional Filipino style of eating where food is served on banana leaves and shared communally, often without the use of utensils). Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, we bring the authentic flavors of Filipino cuisine to create a memorable experience.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
We love Orlando because it aligns with our core value of community. The city fosters a spirit of collaboration, with people helping one another and actively engaging with local businesses. Every time we host a pop-up, we feel warmly welcomed, as though we’ve been embraced as adopted members of the Orlando family.
Additionally, the people here are increasingly open to exploring different cuisines and adventurous in trying new flavors. The community’s growing receptiveness to change and diversity makes it an ideal place to share and celebrate unique food and dining experiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pinoycravings.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinoycravingsfl/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/pinoycravingsfl
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/po3sbVNfAS
- Other: https://g.co/kgs/LBcsgY6
Image Credits
Kyle Aguilar and werlostboysmedia
