Kumain Kitchen is popping up at the District Kitchen in Square One's Food District throughout 2022, with their first week at the food hall coming up quick––beginning today, March 21 until March 27.
Brought to fruition November 2020 by twin brothers Ryan and Jason Buising, Kumain Kitchen is all about showcasing the versatility of Filipino food and flavours to the GTA. More than just a passion project, the duo currently balance their business while working alongside acclaimed chef Humberto Sanchez and his group of culinary spaces, including tapas bar and restaurant Bar Catalina.
Initially known for their savoury menus and traditional Filipino preserves, like burong isda, the duo have slowly made their way into the sweet space too and their current pop-up at Food District reflects just that.
Set to be their first pop-up that allows for a dine-in experience for guests, the overarching theme of their presence at Food District through the year will incorporate Filipino flavours into iconic desserts from around the world.
"The inspiration behind this menu was our desire to highlight that Filipino food can be beautiful, artistic and full of flavour," says Ryan Buising. "We wanted to give Mississauga a taste of what we learned from our six years of being in the cooking industry, and what we learned from our George Brown professors."
Treat yourself to creative dishes like Calamansi Filo Tarts, Basque Ube Cheesecake, Yema Kataifi Tarts and––Ryan's personal favourite––the Filipino Baklava, made with filo dough, honey roasted pistachio, pandan and ube chantily creme.
"Sweet, crunchy, nutty, creamy and beautiful," he says. "Something that I think no one has ever tried before."
Growing up in Mississauga makes this pop-up opportunity even more meaningful for the brothers, who were approached to take part in the Food District's line-up.
"Knowing it was Square One right away I had to say yes," says Ryan. "It was a dream come true having the opportunity to showcase Filipino food in my hometown."
With this week being the first of many pop-ups for the duo at Food District this year, they'll also be returning May 30 to June 9, Sept. 18 to 29 and Oct. 11 to 31. Expect menus to vary each time, all while still ensuring to highlight Filipino flavours.
The pop-up will follow mall hours, so catch Kumain Kitchen at Food District Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. this week. Follow them on Instagram to stay up to date with any new menu additions and what they'll be up to next.
Food District pop-up aside, Kumain Kitchen is always open for GTA collaborations and catering events. To get in touch with Kumain Kitchen, you can email them at kumainkitchen@outlook.com.
