IN THE MIX BY MIC DIAZ
Sometimes the best dining experiences are the ones you don’t expect. Singer and entertainer GG Starr and I recently visited Sampa in Downtown Los Angeles’ Arts District, where we enjoyed a memorable dining experience that redefined our expectations of Filipino cuisine. Created by Chef Josh Espinosa, Sampa reimagines Filipino flavors through modern techniques and creative presentation. We enjoyed the Filipino Ceviche, the Crispy Pasta topped with crispy pork, the restaurant’s elevated take on Kuhol, and a delicate puffed SkyFlakes cracker topped with A5 wagyu, calamansi crème fraîche, and Kaluga caviar, beautifully served atop a SkyFlakes cracker box—a playful nod to a beloved Filipino pantry staple. We ended the meal with the light and airy Ube Bibingka Soufflé, a modern twist on classic Filipino favorites.
Every dish was thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and perfectly portioned, leaving us completely satisfied without feeling overly full. Sampa is the kind of restaurant I’d confidently recommend to friends, family, business associates, or anyone experiencing Filipino cuisine for the first time. With its innovative menu, impeccable presentation, and warm hospitality, it delivers a dining experience that is truly a cut above the rest. We left already looking forward to our next visit.