Food is inherently political," says chef-owner Reem Assil in the clip for his Arab street food project Reem's California. "You can't really sever the way that we eat foods or what we eat from the history and the context behind that food. And particularly Palestinians, it's really weighted in a time where we are literally fighting to exist. Therefore, food conveys stories of culture, history, and the struggles of communities, making it a powerful tool for understanding identity.
There's a lot of thought behind the map's selections - beyond just being delicious, pioneers are here, too. For example, correct credit is given to the Sunset District drink and bulk candy shop called Wonderful Foods Co for being the birthplace of local boba, serving what they call tapioca drinks since the '90s; to Thanh Long for making garlic noodles a local thrill; and to Golden Gate Park's Japanese Tea Garden for reputedly creating the fortune cookie. This highlights the rich cultural history intertwined with food choices.
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