Filipino-American grocery chain Island Pacific opened its 19th location, Friday, in the San Fernando Valley in Granada Hills, California.
The store features fresh seafood, meat, produce, and specialty items from the Philippines and other Asian countries, as well as a range of non-food items like cookware, apparel, and beauty products. It also includes a food court with Max Fried Chicken, Crab Mentality, San Honore Bakery, and PhilHouse, each of which offer a variety of Filipino foods.
The retailer bills itself as “more than just a grocery store; it is a place where you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and flavors of the Philippines and experience the warmth and hospitality of its people.”
The location features Baybayin translations of words for different food items around the store, created by artist Krystian Kabuay, the leading expert on pre-Philippine script. Baybayin is an ancient script used in the Philippines before the arrival of Spanish colonizers. A mural created by local Filipino artist Bodeck Luna is also part of the store's decor.
A grand opening celebration featured live music performances from Philippine Prince of Pop Jay R, Consul General of Los Angeles Edgar Badajos, and cultural performers from Kayamanan Folk Arts and Pagkaraguian Kulintang Ensemble. Moving forward, Island Pacific will feature cooking demonstrations and food tastings, cultural workshops, and art exhibits.
Related: Island Pacific Supermarket Names CMO; Angelo Caputo's Opens in Chicago.