We recently had the chance to connect with Jake Alcoseba and have shared our conversation below.
Jake, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
On an average work day, I’m out of my house by 10 am and head to the kitchen. I go through my to-do lists, from prepping food, maintaining the food truck, and gathering all necessary items (food, tools, etc.) I will need for the day, and if needed, the next day as well. All of these things takes me several hours. I usually try to find an hour in between my preparing for the day and my actual service time to stop back at my house to see my wife and daughters (they’re sleeping by the time I get home). Typically I work evenings, so I’m on my way out before dinner. Evening hours are spent with me cooking and serving on the food truck.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I own and operate El Jabalito food truck. I am a chef who has traveled many countries while on my culinary journey within the span of thirteen years, and brought back home a dream of opening my own food truck. What makes my business unique is that I focus on FIlipino cuisine, something that is not mainstream in the city that we serve, Fresno, California. I wanted to bring my food and culture back to the place I call home because I feel it is important for our Filipino community to have representation, and also to have individuals who may not have had the opportunity to try our dishes, a chance to expand their palates.
I’m currently still working on bringing the Filipino to the forefront by attending multicultural and Filipino-centered events. I also attend job fairs at schools and will be hosting students for a luncheon field trip, in which most, if not all, of the students have never had the chance to eat Filipino food before.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
When I traveled abroad without knowing the language, I learned humility- how to listen, observe, and rely on human kindness. But I also found that food became my bridge to understanding people and culture. That experience shaped how I cook and how I see the world- that connection and respect speak louder than words.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
There is something I do miss, living in Manila. I was born there and as an adult returned to live there for about six years. I unexpectedly left my life there during a visit back to the states. COVID happened and I couldn’t fly out. During that time I met my wife and had two daughters, and haven’t been back to Manila since. I miss the city life, the sounds, energy, even the city smells.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Bayanihan- that sense of community and coming together- is something I hold close. It’s how I was raised and how I try to live. With the food truck, it’s more than just serving food- it’s about building relationships, supporting one another, and creating that same feeling of shared purpose wherever we go.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Yes, I am living it since I opened my truck two years ago. It is a lot of work and long hours but it’s what I’ve been wanting to do. Every day I walk by my truck and head into the kitchen, every day I light up my OPEN sign and see the first ticket orders coming in, I am honored to be able to do it. I don’t mean to come off cheesy, but I feel it a privilege to be able to do what I love.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: El.jabalito
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
