A Journey Back to Where It All Began
Billy Dec’s inaugural documentary, Food Roots, is a deeply personal exploration of self-discovery, multicultural influence, and heritage. After receiving devastating news of family loss from across the globe, Dec leaves Nashville and travels to his mother’s native homeland — the 7,641 islands of the Philippines — in search of his last remaining elders, his family’s stories, and ultimately, himself.
His journey takes him by motorcycle, boat, plane, and on foot as he works to preserve the lost recipes of his ancestors, uncover culinary and cultural treasures, and reconnect with traditions that had begun to fade with time. Along the way, Dec discovers that food is not just sustenance — it’s history, identity, and a bridge between generations.
Honoring Loss, Heritage, and Healing
At its core, Food Roots is a story of healing through heritage. Dec candidly shares the grief of losing his beloved Lola (grandmother), alongside reflections on his Chicago upbringing and the challenges of balancing a multicultural identity. By opening his heart and honoring his Filipino roots, Dec invites viewers to reflect on their own family histories and the traditions that shape who they are today.
The documentary’s emotional depth and authenticity have resonated with audiences across the country.
Audience Choice Winner at the Vero Beach Film Festival
The impact of Food Roots was especially evident at the Vero Beach Film Festival, where the documentary was awarded Audience Choice Winner.
Festival organizers praised the film for its honesty, beauty, and universal message:
“In Food Roots, Emmy Award–winning restaurateur Billy Dec embarked on a journey to bridge his cultural food identity and family ties in the Philippines after the death of his Lola. By sharing some of his rawest losses and struggles during his Chicago upbringing and connections to his Filipino family, this beautifully woven story became an inspiration for all of us to look for a deeper understanding of our own heritage.”
Audience members were equally moved — many are still talking about the film and even planning trips to Tampa to experience Dec’s cuisine firsthand at his restaurant, Sunda New Asian.
Giving Back Through #SundaService
Beyond storytelling and hospitality, Dec’s mission extends into service. During his conversation on Bloom, he also shared Sunda New Asian’s #SundaService program, an initiative dedicated to providing nourishing meals and relief to those in need — especially during the holidays, but throughout the year as well.
The program reflects Dec’s belief that food has the power not only to connect families, but to uplift communities.
A Holiday Reminder That Resonates
As families gather around the table this season, Food Roots serves as a poignant reminder: the meals we share carry stories, memories, and meaning far beyond the plate.
Billy Dec’s journey encourages all of us to pause, reflect, and reconnect — with our roots, our loved ones, and the traditions that make the holidays truly special.
Because sometimes, the most powerful way to move forward… is by remembering where we come from.