I was introduced to Jo and her amazing food at one of her pop-ups at Grassini Family Vineyards (https://www.grassinifamilyvineyards.com/) Downtown Tasting Room. I was intrigued because Jo does her own take on Filipino food and adds a distinct flair to it. I love Filipino food because growing up in Santa Maria, my next-door neighbors were Filipino and would also give my family some delicious food. After trying her food, I am hooked. It brought back so many wonderful memories of my childhood. Everything she makes is absolutely delicious! I have been fortunate enough to try her food on a couple more occasions. 

Jo has been living in Santa Barbara for about ten years. Previously, she spent time all over the world, from Saipan, Guam, Hawaii as well as Boston. Growing up as a half-Filipino/half Irish woman, her entire life has been a blend of cultures and it definitely shows in her food. Filipino food has played a large role in feeling connected to her culture. Eating with Jo is Filipino food with small tweaks, where you can find her own personal taste with each and every dish. She started having pop-ups in July of 2021, and her following has grown ever since. One taste of her food and you will know why. It has been such a joy for her to share her passion for cooking Filipino Food with the Santa Barbara community. You can follow her and see when her next pop-up will be on Instagram at @eatingwithjo and contact her at eatingwithjomarie@gmail.com.  (mailto:eatingwithjomarie@gmail.com)