Let the build begin....
I then began to design this completely self-sufficient foldout trailer; solar-powered refrigeration, fold-out BBQ, storage – everything!
How it all began.
The story of Mini Pinoy Grill is more than just the tale of a marinade
it’s a journey steeped in culture, family, and the unmistakable flavors of my Filipino heritage. Growing up as a proud, big-hearted Filipino kid, food wasn’t just sustenance; it was a way of life, a celebration, and a connection to the people I loved.
My dream of becoming a chef began early, but like any journey, it faced its share of detours. One such detour came when I learned about my cousin cracking thirty eggs as a kitchen hand—it was enough to steer me away from the culinary world for a while. But some passions are impossible to ignore, and my love for cooking was one of them.
The seeds for Mini Pinoy Grill were sown in my childhood, watching my uncle, Tito Mario, work magic with his tiny charcoal grill. I can still smell the incredible aroma of his marinated chicken wings sizzling over the coals. That marinade became a memory I couldn’t shake, a flavor I would spend years trying to recreate.
Over time, I began experimenting with my own Filipino-style marinade, sharing it with friends and family at parties, fiestas, and any gathering where food took center stage. Each time someone asked, "What's in it?" my answer was always the same: "It's a secret!" Watching the joy and amusement on people's faces as they tasted my dishes was the ultimate reward.
Mini Pinoy Grill isn't just about food; it's about preserving tradition, celebrating culture, and bringing people together. From humble beginnings, it's become a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the memories that shape us. This is more than a brand—it's my story, my family's story and a tribute to the flavors of home.
Through years of trial, error, and refinement, that secret marinade evolved into something truly special—a blend of flavors that captures the heart of Filipino cuisine. It was those happy faces, those moments of connection and shared delight, that inspired me to take the leap.
Mini Pinoy Grill: A Journey Rooted in Passion and Flavor
The Birth of Mini Pinoy Grill Trailer
In July, 2015 I approached a friend of mine (Kris ‘The Magic Man’ Cristobal). I had the idea of creating an amazing food truck, with all the bells and whistles. However, reality sank in when the enormity of the job and the costs involved became clear – I didn’t have the $90-$150k I’d need to start up, so I instead opted for the mini version. This was the beginning of Mini Pinoy Grill. I worked hard refining my design of this bite-sized food trailer, first sketching away with pad and pencil before eventually using some free design software online. (see gallery below)
This is where I need your help to spread the Filipino love and the Filipino flavour! By supporting my Kickstarter, we can start spreading the word. But Mini Pinoy Grill All Purpose Marinade doesn’t just help me; I want to support local, family businesses, and that’s why we’ll be starting out by exclusively stocking at local butchers, supermarkets and corner shops. We want people to go to their local businesses, buy the marinade and see what else our hard-working small businesses have to offer!
P.S A huge thank you to Chill, Ness, Eddie, Solid, Ris and BJ for your amazing help! Also a big thanks to Jonathan for giving me a chance to open once a week at 48 Watt St. Also a huge thank you to Joshua Holiday for the amazing footage, Antojitos for allowing us to shoot on location. Jess and Nicole and the whole team at Wedding Designers, and also Meg Wilson for all your amazing help!
The good thing about supporting Mini Pinoy Grill All-Purpose Marinade is that all the hard yards have been done! The first batch is in production and will soon be ready to be shipped. I want this Kickstarter to help spread the Mini Pinoy Grill name.
If we get enough people tasting the unique Filipino flavour, this will – literally – kickstart the transition from dream into a sustainable reality. I’ll be able to then let people know where they can find more of the Mini Pinoy Grill All-Purpose Marinade, helping those businesses that wish to stock my product.