FOOD ROOTS: A Story of Culture, Family, and Flavor

Emmy Award-winning restaurateur Billy Dec journeys across his mother’s native 7,641 islands of the Philippines to reconnect with his last living elders, uncover family recipes, and explore the traditions that shaped his heritage.

In FOOD ROOTS, Billy travels by plane, boat, jeepney, motorcycle, and on foot, from bustling cities to remote islands and mountain villages above the clouds, gaining a deeper understanding of identity through food, family, and culture.

Featuring an acclaimed creative team including three-time Oscar-winning Executive Producer Doug Blush (20 Feet from Stardom, Icarus, The Elephant Whisperers), Emmy Award-winning director Michele Josue, Oscar-nominated Ronnie Del Carmen (Up, Inside Out), and Grammy Award-winner apl.de.ap (Black Eyed Peas), FOOD ROOTS is a powerful cultural story told through a deeply personal lens.

Streaming on PBS and Billy Dec's YouTube on May 1 in celebration of Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month.

Rooted In Our Story

At Sunda, that same spirit lives on.

Inspired by the cultures and flavors explored in FOOD ROOTS, our menu reflects a modern approach to Southeast Asian cuisine, rooted in tradition, elevated through technique, and designed to be shared.

In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, we’re featuring a lineup of limited-time dishes and cocktails that highlight the ingredients, stories, and cultural influences that define the region. Bringing the flavors of the Philippines and beyond to the table. Learn more about Sunda's AAPI Heritage Month specials.

Watch FOOD ROOTS

FOOD ROOTS premieres throughout May on PBS, with streaming available on YouTube, starting May 1.

We invite you to watch and experience the stories that continue to shape Sunda today.