Filipino Dessert Shop Expands in California
Café 86, a franchise known for its Filipino-inspired desserts and beverages, has signed two new franchise agreements to expand its presence in California. The company, which features unique flavors in its offerings, did not disclose the specific locations for the new stores.
- The concept was created by husband-and-wife duo James and Ginger Dimapasok, who opened the first Café 86 in Chino, California, in 2014. Ginger, who grew up in Manila, drew inspiration from her family's love of food and later attended culinary school in the United States. - The name "Café 86" is a nod to co-founder James Dimapasok's passion for his 1986 Toyota Corolla and the car meet community. The cafe was initially envisioned as a place for his car group to gather. - The menu is known for its focus on ube, a purple yam commonly used in Filipino desserts, which was a familiar flavor from Ginger's childhood. Signature items include ube leche flan cupcakes, ube truffles, and ube-infused drinks. - The initial franchise fee for a Café 86 location is $35,000, with a total estimated investment ranging from $206,500 to $444,667. - As of January 2026, there are 28 Café 86 locations in the United States, with 26 of them situated in California. The two new franchise agreements are for locations in Monterey County with franchisees Jonathan and Maia Estrada, and in Indio with Glenn and Geneanne Maniago. - This expansion comes amid a surge in popularity for Filipino cuisine in the U.S., which has seen a 50% increase in demand over the past year, largely driven by Gen Z's interest in global flavors. - In the months leading up to this deal, Café 86 opened several other California locations, including Placentia, Milpitas, Lancaster, and Roseville. - The brand has gained national recognition, with features on Hulu's "Taste the Nation" and mentions from the Food Network and Good Morning America.
