- 10/25/2024 5:41:51 PM
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After dedicating nearly a decade to his role as a probation officer, Emerson Baja felt an urge for transformation. Seeking a fresh start, he embraced social work while rediscovering the joys of his hobbies. A year ago, he introduced a delightful twist to his workplace culture by bringing in lumpia, a popular Filipino dish, for his coworkers to enjoy.
What started as a simple gesture quickly blossomed into a culinary phenomenon. Today, Emerson's lumpia sells out at nearly every event he attends in Long Beach. He confidently asserts, "Lumpia may be helping me reach my full potential."
Lumpia is often compared to an egg roll, but this Filipino specialty has its own unique charm. The most renowned version, lumpia Shanghai, is filled with a savory mix of:
These ingredients are then wrapped in a delicate pastry sheet and deep-fried to golden perfection. The result? A crispy, flavorful treat that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many.
The slogan on Baja's banner, “Made with Hella Love,” pays tribute to his Bay Area roots and embodies a philosophy he learned from his mother about the importance of love in cooking. Emerson believes that each batch of lumpia carries a piece of his heart, saying, "When I make lumpia and fry it, somebody is going to eat it and taste the love. It’s going to make a lot of people happy."
After relocating from Richmond to Long Beach for college, Baja found a sense of belonging in the city. His journey continued as he reconnected with friends and fellow food enthusiasts. He met Victor Fernandez, a fellow lumpia aficionado, during their college days at Cal State Long Beach. Their friendship blossomed, with Fernandez supporting Baja in crafting new recipes and lending a hand during events—even after long workdays.
As Emerson continues to expand his culinary offerings, the love and community spirit behind Long Beach Lumpia grow stronger. Each event not only showcases delicious food but also creates connections among people—one lumpia at a time.
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