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Eater
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Eater
The Best Dishes Eater Chicago Editors Ate This Week: July 25
The editors at Eater Chicago dine out several times a week, if not per day, which means we're always encountering standout dishes that deserve time in the limelight. Here's the very best of everything the team has eaten this week. Rasam from Thalaiva's Indian Kitchen and Bar in Park Ridge Rasam from Thalaiva's Indian Kitchen and Bar. Ashok Selvam/Eater Chicago Chicago is coming off a streak of consecutive 90-degree days. So why am I telling you to travel to the Northern Suburbs and try some soup? Because South Indian food is just so haute right now. As common with other international cuisines, Americans are realizing that first to market doesn't always tell the full story and that there's more to Indian food than butter chicken (though butter chicken allegedly is making a little bit of a come back). Americans loved tiki, so might as well give them some tropical vibes off the Malabar Coast in Southern India. Particularly Keralan cuisine, where beef and pork often shine, has seized the spotlight and Chicago is seeing more and more restaurants. Having South Indian blood, I've been skeptical about what dishes are getting attention, and I've seen some restaurants flounder despite being hailed as the next big thing. In Park Ridge, Thalaiva's Indian Kitchen and Bar soars with an ideal mix of fun items — like fish fries and an array of Indian coffees — as well as the stuff I grew up eating at home in Chicago. I feel 'homestyle' is kind of dismissive, but the rasam served hit all the right notes; it's a healing vegetarian elixir full of tamarind and tomatoes that helped power me through a number of bitter Chicago winters. We ate it with a little basmati rice mixed in. At Thaliva's, they'll bring out a small gravy boat, a ladle, and cups. You might opt to slurp it down with a spoon or sip it slow with a utensil. Remember: South India is no monolith. We like both dosa AND idily, thank you. We just love our carbs which brings me to a realization: How can you tell if an Indian restaurant is good? Just keep an ear out for the sweet sound of a glucose monitor alarm. That's our people's tell, and I heard a chorus of them at Thalaiva's. — Ashok Selvam, lead editor, Eater Midwest Shrimp lumpia from Cebu in Lincoln Square Shrimp lumpia from Cebu. Ashok Selvam/Eater Chicago There is such thing as bad lumpia. It can be soggy. The wrapper to filling ratio can go awry. The fillingcould be rancid, even when fried to a golden crisp. I write this as a reminder not to take quality lumpia for granted. Along Lincoln Avenue, Cebu has found a niche as an all-day restaurant with Filipino American flavors. The mid-afternoon menu is great on weekends for families, and the pork lumpia might be the best in the city. These aren't the bite-sized lumpia you might prefer. They're a little longer and meant to be savored. For dinner, Cebu amps its lumpia up with shrimp. As a big fan of the pork version, I was skeptical: If it ain't broke, don't fix it. But after a single bite, my tastebuds were singing a different tune. Shrimp was a simple yet decadent upgrade. I don't know if there's such thing as a perfect lumpia, but Cebu's nighttime offering has me wondering if we're getting close. — A.S. Neapolitan pizza from Coda di Volpe in Lakeview Coda di Volpe specializes in Neapolitan pizzas. Sandy Noto/Coda di Volpe Chicagoans seemingly love to debate pizza just about as much as they enjoy eating it. Deep-dish versus tavern-style is an eternal battle that will never be decided, but they're not the only pies deserving of your attention. Detroit-style squares have exploded in popularity in recent years, and there are also plenty of quality options for New York slices (no judgement) and traditional Italian pizzas. This past week, I visited Southport Corridor favorite Coda di Volpe to try some of its Neapolitan offerings. The restaurant is one of few in the city that's VPN-certified, a designation given to pizzerias by the American affiliate of the Naples-based Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. This means the pies are made under certain parameters with approved equipment, which in theory should produce more consistent and superior results. Of course, it's still possible to have a bad Neapolitan pizza while adhering to these guidelines, and vice versa, so the certification isn't the be-all and end-all. It's been several years since I'd been to Coda di Volpe, but the three pies I sampled that night — margherita, mortadella and pistachio, sausage and soppressata — all hit the mark. The blistered, chewy crust surrounds a soft and gooey center, making it the perfect base for a smattering of toppings. The mortadella and pistachio pie stood out in particular — the savory pork, buffalo mozzarella, and nutty pistachio pesto all complementing each together harmoniously. It was worth braving the congestion around the neighborhood that coincides with a Cubs home game. — Jeffy Mai, associate editor, Eater Midwest Taiwanese beef noodle soup from Minyoli in Andersonville Minyoli is a Taiwanese restaurant offering noodle soups, popcorn chicken, and more. It's been a hot week in Chicago, so naturally I was in the mood for… noodle soup. Taiwanese restaurant Minyoli opened in Andersonville last year, giving the North Side a much-welcome spot to enjoy the East Asian country's specialties. While the chilled sesame noodles might've been more appropriate given the weather during my visit, I decided to go with what the kitchen is best known for, and also Taiwan's national dish — niu rou mian, or beef noodle soup. A bowl of eight-hour bone broth arrives teeming with bouncy, homemade noodles, pickled mustard greens, and tender beef (with the option of adding tendon as well) that's braised with black bean and spicy broad bean sauces. I added a little more heat with some chile oil, which really made the dish sing. Temps be damned, you should order this complex and wholly satisfying noodle soup year-round. — J.M.
Filipino Times
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Sofronio Vasquez to Headline 'Ode to Summer' with Full Orchestra in Los Angeles
Filipino American singer and 'The Voice' grand winner Sofronio Vasquez is set to deliver his first and only full symphony orchestra performance in the United States this year. The highly anticipated concert, titled 'Ode to Summer,' will take place on August 15 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles. The event is presented by the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) and is considered a homecoming for Vasquez, a proud Filipino American and 'Tawag ng Tanghalan' alum whose musical journey continues to inspire many. 'Ode to Summer' marks a significant milestone in Vasquez's career as he fulfills a long-time dream of performing alongside a full orchestra. The 70-piece FASO ensemble, led by acclaimed founding conductor Robert Shroder, will accompany him in a rich and diverse musical program that blends classical, sacred, and popular Filipino and American pieces. FASO, a nonprofit organization, is committed to promoting Filipino musical heritage and nurturing young talents in the community. The event will also feature special performances by the University of Santo Tomas Singers Alumni under the baton of Fidel Calalang, and the award-winning youth group St. Genevieve Valiant Voices Choir, directed by Christopher Avendaño. Both vocal ensembles will bring additional depth to the evening's celebration of cultural heritage and musical excellence. More than a showcase of talent, the concert supports a cause—funding FASO's youth music education initiatives. These programs benefit around 500 students each year through training in performance, songwriting, vocal development, and musicianship. With federal funding cuts threatening arts education, proceeds from the concert will help sustain FASO's mission to preserve Filipino music and cultivate the next generation of Filipino American musicians. Tickets for Ode to Summer are available at ranging from $30 to $125.
Filipino Times
21-07-2025
- Filipino Times
18 Filipino cruise ship workers deported, banned from U.S. despite valid visas
At least 18 Filipino workers aboard the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship were reportedly handcuffed, removed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), deported to the Philippines, and banned from entering the United States for 10 years, according to Filipino American advocacy groups. The workers, who were not charged with any crime, held valid 10-year U.S. visas. Filipino community leaders, including the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC), called the incident 'an alarming escalation of unjust immigration practices.' 'These crew members are devoted parents and spouses who passed strict background checks. Their sudden removal and visa cancellation have left their families in financial hardship,' the joint statement read. CBP confirmed the operation but gave no details. USA Today reported that the workers were previously cleared to work legally in the U.S. With the Carnival Sunshine set to dock again in Norfolk this Sunday, other Filipino crew members remain fearful of similar treatment. The PWC and NaFFAA said this incident reflects a broader trend where foreign cruise ship workers are deported despite holding valid documents. The groups urged accountability from CBP, Carnival Corporation, and the Philippine Embassy, calling for the protection of the rights of seafarers affected by these actions.
The Star
21-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
Filipino Americans brace for impact of Trump's ‘big, beautiful bill'
LOS ANGELES: As the United States moves forward with implementing President Donald Trump's sweeping legislative package – dubbed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' – many Filipino American communities are bracing for policy changes that could significantly impact their daily lives. From immigration and healthcare to education and remittances, advocates warn that the proposed reforms may jeopardise vital support systems for thousands of immigrant families across the country. Described by supporters as a move toward fiscal efficiency, the bill contains deep cuts to Medicaid, stricter work requirements for food assistance programmes, expanded funding for deportations and a controversial new tax on international remittances. One of the bill's most alarming aspects is its potential impact on healthcare access for millions of low-income Americans. Filipino Americans, many of whom work in frontline healthcare roles, are particularly vulnerable to the Medicaid funding cuts. This federal-state programme serves as a lifeline for many, offering essential medical coverage and preventive care. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to ten million Americans — primarily from communities of colour — could lose Medicaid coverage by 2034. For Filipino Americans, who already experience healthcare disparities and face higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, the proposed changes could deepen existing inequalities. According to the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), 'Medicaid is used to pay for 70 per cent of home care and is often care workers' only pathway to affordable, quality care for themselves. These massive cuts are going to have a ripple effect throughout our communities – countless care workers will lose their jobs and their healthcare.' Jessica Caloza, representing California's 52nd Assembly District, which encompasses several Los Angeles County communities with significant Filipino American presence, such as Eagle Rock, South Glendale and Historic Filipino Town, warns that 'the Big Beautiful Bill is dangerous and will harm many of our Filipino families.' 'It gives tax breaks to the rich while slashing numerous safety net programmes, including the largest single cut to food stamps as poverty reaches a two-decade high, and a US$1 trillion cut to Medicaid,' Caloza emphasised in her statement. Major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme (SNAP), or 'food stamps,' could severely impact working-class Filipino American families – especially those in mixed-status households (with undocumented parents and US-born children, for example). These benefits often allow families to afford healthier, more expensive food options. Perla Bermudez Santos, founder of the MoTHER Movement, a Los Angeles-based group of Filipino American mothers and seniors, and co-author of 'Caregiving Manual II: Skills and Strategies for Compassionate Care,' noted that while members appreciate new tax deductions and the exemption of Social Security benefits from federal taxes, serious concerns remain. 'Members are worried about the rising cost of fruits, vegetables and other nutritious food options,' said Santos. 'Many seniors receive just US$1,000 a month in retirement benefits and must cover rent, food, transportation, clothing and other essentials. For them, supplemental food benefits are vital to making ends meet.' Another contentious provision is a one per cent excise tax on remittances sent abroad – impacting green card holders, visa workers and undocumented immigrants, including many Filipino Americans. With over US$10 billion in annual remittances sent to the Philippines, this tax could significantly reduce support to families abroad and affect local economies dependent on overseas funds. The bill also proposes 100 per cent tax deductions for donations to private school voucher programmes, a move critics argue could siphon funding from public schools. Many students of colour – including Filipino Americans – attend underfunded public schools that rely on government support. Additionally, expanded funding for immigration enforcement – including a US$170 billion allocation, with US$75 billion earmarked for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – has stoked fear among the estimated 340,000 undocumented Filipino Americans. Many are longtime residents, essential workers and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients now facing heightened uncertainty. Caloza, an immigrant and lifelong public servant who has advocated for working families throughout her various roles at the federal, state and local levels, condemned the bill's immigration provisions. 'I'm devastated by the unrest and fear that families – including Filipinos – in our communities face due to the ongoing ICE raids and increased immigration enforcement,' Caloza said. 'Our taxpayer dollars should go toward our schools, parks, libraries and hospitals – and for communities like mine that have been devastated by wildfires. We also need to invest in emergency recovery,' she added. Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), a network of four independent Asian American civil rights organisations, echoed that sentiment: 'This legislation prioritises harmful immigration crackdowns at the expense of the urgent needs of everyday Americans.' In response, Filipino American organisations across the country are launching efforts to educate and support affected families through town halls, legal clinics and resource guides. AAAJ stated, 'The Reconciliation Bill directly attacks not just immigrant communities, but all Americans who rely on essential health and nutrition programmes. We need laws that invest in opportunities and our future – not laws that cater to the mega-rich and funnel resources into systems of exclusion and cruelty.' The National Domestic Workers Alliance expressed similar resolve: 'Today, our hearts are heavy. We fought tirelessly – standing shoulder-to-shoulder at vigils, rallies and lobbying blitzes. Now, it's time to turn our grief and outrage into powerful action.' 'We are mobilising to hold accountable every lawmaker who chose cruelty over compassion. In just a few weeks, our massive Protect Medicaid Mobilisations will send an undeniable message: these heartless cuts will have consequences,' the organisation added. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which includes 73 members advocating for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, held a press conference addressing the bill's devastating consequences. 'We are united in our commitment to protecting Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders from harmful policies that threaten our rights, our safety and our well-being,' said Rep. Grace Meng, CAPAC Chair. 'Instead of working to lower costs, as he promised on day one, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are waging endless culture wars. This is not what the American people want. CAPAC will continue to fight tooth and nail to protect our rights, hold our leaders accountable and ensure our voices are heard.' NAFCON USA, a coalition of Filipino grassroots organisations and nonprofits, also issued a call to action: 'We urge everyone to get involved, take action and stand alongside Filipino organisations to organise, defend our communities and build the future we deserve.' With the bill's implementation, Filipino Americans find themselves at a critical crossroads – confronting not only sweeping legislative changes but also profound personal consequences for their families and communities. For many, the looming enactment of Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' marks a defining moment in their ongoing struggle for dignity, security and the American dream. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
Arab Times
20-07-2025
- Arab Times
Filipino workers pulled from cruise ship in US immigration raid
NORFOLK, Va, July 20: At least 18 Filipino crew members were forcibly removed in handcuffs from the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship at the Port of Norfolk, Virginia, and deported to the Philippines, according to Filipino American advocacy groups. The individuals have also reportedly been barred from re-entering the United States for 10 years. In a joint statement, the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) condemned the removals, describing them as part of an 'alarming escalation of unjust immigration practices.' The crew members held valid 10-year U.S. work visas and had not been charged with any crimes, the groups emphasized. 'These crew members are hardworking parents and spouses with clean records, having passed rigorous background checks to obtain their visas,' the statement read. 'Their sudden removal, combined with the revocation of their visas and a decade-long re-entry ban, has brought not only humiliation but also financial devastation to their families.' The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed an active operation but did not release specific details, according to USA Today. Additional cruise lines, including Viking and Pearl Seas Cruises, have reportedly also been affected by similar actions. The advocacy groups warned that remaining crew aboard the Carnival Sunshine now fear they could be next, as the ship is scheduled to return to Norfolk this Sunday. 'This incident reflects a broader national trend of workplace immigration raids targeting crew members with valid documents and no criminal background,' the groups said. 'We are deeply concerned about the erosion of due process and the impact on these individuals and their families.'
