Back in 2024, long before we ever became an online publication, we declared that it was the “Year of the Philippines”. That year has rolled into an era. While we can’t take all (if any) of the credit, we’ll happily enjoy it.
This Sunday, new Marrickville hotspot Sleep Bloc is hosting Ubé Bloc Party, a one-day celebration of Australian-Filipino culture. The party will feature a lineup of vendors selling savoury treats, baked desserts, cosy comfort meals, and family-focused active-wear, just in case you want to run everything off. We chatted with one of the event organisers, Kenneth Rodrigueza. Ken is one half of Sydney institutions Doughnut Papi and Tita, whose passion for the Filipino community is matched only by his love of laing.
Hi Ken! Firstly how do you feel having ‘Ube Fest’ being less than a week away?
I’m so excited! These are some of my super-talented friends. Seeing them all together under one roof will be a dream.
You have a storied background in food and hospitality, being partially responsible for both Donut Papi and Tita. What drew you to the kitchen and service?
I think my love of food and creating stuff is one thing, but I also love developing my own systems and maximising everything’s efficiency. Combining those two, plus having amazing service, is the key!
For most people, they associate Filipino cuisine with pork, Jollibee, and ube (of course). What are the most common misconceptions people have when it comes to Filipino food?
Often people’s misconceptions about Filipino food is that it is all pork, Jollibee and ube, and that it lacks diversity. However, just like any other cuisine that is now getting attention, it’s so much more! While those aforementioned dishes stick in people’s minds, the most important thing is getting people talking about Filipino cuisine. The rest will follow!
What is the most slept on Filipino dish that Sydneysiders need to start getting on?
Definitely anything from the region of Bicol. The trifecta of Bicolano food is coconut, chilli and shrimp paste. You’re looking for something creamy, funky and definitely spicy. My dad’s side of the family is from Bicol and their cooking is so technical and meticulous. However, the results are so worth it.
Why was it important for you to hold an event that platforms the Filipino-Australian community?
It’s all about connecting to our community. Finding other members of the Filipino-Australian community in the Inner West means our family is growing outside of Western Sydney. The more people we find, the more we thrive!
Recently, Sleepy Bloc has been holding several community events over the last few months, including Blend Theory’s first birthday and It’s Culture. What does it mean to have a host and space like this in Sydney?
It’s very important and timely to have this kind of space in Sydney at the moment. We’re all really seeking a place like Sleepybloc. It’s a space that’s relaxing, casual, fun, has good coffee, and at times has an organised chaos to it. We’re all craving the warmth of community with real talent, people, and music, not just the same AI brain-rot content.
Who can we expect to see at ‘Ube Fest’ this Sunday?
Aileen and Kiko’s are a powerhouse! I adore their vision of Filipino cuisine at Takam (@takam.syd) and Adhika (@adhika.syd). They always add a personal touch to their food. Also, the DETAILS— my god, unreal!
Margo and Vinny are the duo behind Taguan (@taguancafe.syd) in Redfern. I love how they curate everything they do to be all about comfort and homeliness. There’s something about their work that makes you feel cosy and welcomed.
Love Hannah (@hansmadebakehouse). She’s a longtime baking friend of mine. We connected through our love of donuts. I’ve always loved her style and her curation, which make everything she does fun, creative, and innovative.
Katrina, Carlo, Raven, Sky and Skyler are the family behind Aktibo (@aktibowear). They combine activewear and Filipino representation into incredibly comfortable pieces. Also, they’re so much fun to hang out with, and I love their energy- it’s very on brand, AKTIBO!
Thanks to Ken for taking the time chat. Ubé Bloc Party goes down this Sunday. Featuring great food, music, and so much more. Make sure to come down to Sleepy Bloc to check it out.
