The Birth of Eskenita
John Abejo, the founder of Eskenita, credits his wife as the backbone of their culinary success. “Every man’s success is often supported by the women behind them,” John shares, with a smile that reflects both gratitude and pride. It was during a visit to Taste of Manila that inspiration struck. The absence of traditional Filipino street food sparked an idea: to create a space where locals could experience the flavors and warmth of home.
But the journey was far from easy. Lacking the capital to start, John and his wife turned to family and friends for support. With borrowed tents, pots, and unwavering determination, Eskenita made its debut at a local festival. “We didn’t have much, but we had our passion,” John recalls. “It was a gamble, but it felt right.”
Authentic Flavors, Crafted with Love
At the heart of Eskenita is its commitment to quality and authenticity. Every dish is prepared with meticulous care, from the iconic pork isaw (grilled pork intestines) to the soulful goto (Filipino rice porridge).
“My wife handles the recipes, ensuring every flavor is just right. It’s what we call ‘lutong pagmamahal’—cooking with love,” John explains. The preparation involves hours of marinating, boiling, and seasoning to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. “It has to be something our family approves of, something that tastes like home.”
Challenges and Resilience
The road to success was paved with challenges. The early years were particularly tough, with summer festivals providing the only steady stream of customers. Then came the pandemic, which brought the business to the brink of closure. “I even called my brother in the Philippines to ask how to file for bankruptcy,” John admits. “We were struggling with rent, bills, and no support.”
Despite the hardships, the Abejo family refused to give up. They drew strength from their faith, each other, and the unwavering support of the Filipino community. “Miracles happen,” John says, reflecting on how the community rallied around them, providing the encouragement they needed to keep going.
A Legacy of Family and Community
For John, Eskenita is more than a business—it’s a legacy for his children. “It’s not about money or fame,” he says. “It’s about leaving something meaningful for my kids and creating memories for our customers.” The sacrifices they’ve made—missing birthdays, holidays, and precious family moments—are driven by their commitment to providing for their children’s future.
Even with these challenges, John remains hopeful. “We’re still planting the seed,” he explains. “We might not see the harvest yet, but we’re building something that will last—a place where people can create memories, one meal at a time.”
A Taste of Home at Eskenita
Today, Eskenita continues to serve as a beloved spot for Filipino street food, offering dishes that evoke the warmth and familiarity of home. Whether it’s the savory bite of isaw, the comforting aroma of goto, or the cheerful smiles of the Abejo family, Eskenita is a celebration of resilience, love, and community.
So, the next time you’re near Yonge and Steeles, stop by Eskenita. Taste the flavors of tradition, feel the warmth of a family’s passion, and become part of a story that’s as heartwarming as the food itself.
