Three Pigs in Long Beach: A Culinary Adventure Beyond the Pop-Up
In the vibrant culinary scene of Long Beach, a dynamic duo, Allison and Vasili Tavernakis, has carved out a unique space with their pop-up restaurant, Three Pigs. Their journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and the ability to transform a simple idea into a thriving community-driven enterprise. What sets Three Pigs apart is not just the delicious food, but the immersive experiences they create, pushing the boundaries of what a pop-up can be.
A Culinary Journey Begins
The story of Three Pigs began with a shared love for Japanese cuisine, particularly yakitori. Allison, with her Japanese-American heritage, and Vasili, with his culinary expertise, found themselves drawn to the traditional Japanese cooking techniques and flavors. Their post-work escapades to izakayas sparked a passion for yakitori, and it was during these moments that they envisioned a way to share their love for food with others.
The pandemic lockdowns provided the perfect opportunity for them to experiment and refine their skills. They started cooking at home, recreating the dishes that reminded them of their favorite late-night meals. It was a labor of love, and their confidence grew with each successful dinner for friends.
Pop-Up Revolution
The pop-up concept was a natural progression for Allison and Vasili. They saw it as a way to bring their restaurant-quality cooking to the public without the constraints of a brick-and-mortar space. The first pop-up in downtown Long Beach was an instant hit, selling out their entire menu. This success fueled their ambition, and they have since grown organically, relying on community connections and word of mouth to find new avenues for their culinary creations.
Pushing Boundaries
One of the most fascinating aspects of Three Pigs is their willingness to push boundaries. They are constantly evolving, drawing inspiration from their travels and experiences. For instance, Vasili's recent trip to Japan inspired him to create an irori-style grill, a traditional Japanese cooking method. He sourced ayu, a small fish prized for its delicate flavor, and arranged it vertically around lengths of charcoal, creating a dish that is both a tribute to Japanese cooking and a unique culinary experience.
Immersive Dining Experiences
Three Pigs doesn't just serve food; they create immersive dining experiences. Their dinner series, hosted at various locations, takes guests on a journey through flavors and traditions. For instance, their pairing of a tasting menu with an ikebana class at a Santa Monica nursery was a unique and memorable experience. Allison and Vasili served dishes like hamachi crudo with strawberry ponzu and spiny lobster with caviar and white miso beurre monté, all while guests learned the art of flower arranging.
A Community-Driven Approach
What makes Three Pigs truly special is their community-driven approach. They see their pop-ups and events as a way to engage with their customers on a personal level. Allison and Vasili believe in creating an entire restaurant experience, not just serving food on a plate. They interact with guests, ask questions, and have conversations, making each dining experience a memorable one.
A Culinary Adventure Continues
As you follow Three Pigs on Instagram, you'll discover a constantly evolving menu, with new dishes and experiences to explore. Their ability to blend tradition and innovation, memory and place, makes each pop-up a unique adventure. Whether it's a hearty kakuni don or a hyper-seasonal dish like yuzu-scented whipped tofu, Three Pigs offers a culinary journey that is both comforting and exciting.
In my opinion, Three Pigs is more than just a pop-up; it's a culinary adventure that challenges the traditional restaurant experience. Their passion, creativity, and community-driven approach make them a force to be reckoned with in the food scene, and I can't wait to see what new and exciting experiences they bring to the table in the future.
