Traditional Filipino barbecue skewers delight customers
By Debbie L. Sklar
A culinary sensation is turning heads and tantalizing taste buds at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market. SD Filipino BBQ, founded by Aaron and Zy-ra Fukuchi, offers a modern take on traditional Filipino barbecue sticks – marinated, grilled and served in entrée-sized portions that have quickly made them a fan favorite.
The story of SD Filipino BBQ begins thousands of miles away in the Philippines, during the early stages of the 2020 pandemic. Aaron, born in northern Luzon, had recently married Zy-ra and was staying in the country to support his pregnant wife. With movement restricted and restaurants closed, the couple sought a creative outlet and a way to earn extra income. They turned to a cherished family recipe from her mother and sister-in-law, selling skewers of marinated pork, chicken, isaw (chicken intestines) and even dugo (pork blood) at a local weekend market.
“People would line up around the block,” Aaron said. “They could smell the barbecue from the neighborhood, and everyone wanted some. We’d sell out every weekend.”
Beyond business, the Fukuchis also used the opportunity to give back, sharing extra food and rice with neighbors in need during lockdowns, creating a sense of community in challenging times.
Fast forward a few years, and the Fukuchis brought their recipe to San Diego. Adapting to American tastes meant larger portions, a heavier marinade and fine-tuning the flavors. With the assistance of a local chef, Anthony Stucky and business partner Robyn Spencer, they created a standardized recipe that maintains the authentic Filipino flair while appealing to U.S. customers.
Today, SD Filipino BBQ operates out of a commercial kitchen near Petco Park, preparing fresh skewers three times a week. The menu features all-natural chicken breasts and pork sirloin, marinated for more than 24 hours, then grilled to perfection. Each skewer is paired with either non-spicy Japanese-influenced cucumbers or Korean-inspired spicy cucumbers, alongside super-fine milagrosa rice. Signature Filipino drinks round out the experience.
Most popular? The chicken skewer with spicy cucumbers, which customers rave about for its perfect balance of flavors.
Aaron and Zy-ra’s business isn’t just about food; it’s about connection.
“It feels like a family at Scripps,” Aaron said. “Everyone looks out for each other rather than competing. That kind of support makes a big difference.”
Looking to the future, the Fukuchis dream big. Their ultimate goal is to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant, offering a fine dining experience with the potential for a Michelin star. For now, they continue to delight locals with flavorful, hearty skewers, sharing a taste of the Philippines one stick at a time.
Visit SD Filipino BBQ at the Scripps Ranch Farmers Market, held each Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 10045 Carroll Canyon Road.