Eating at Prubechu Restaurant in San Francisco as a Proud Chamorro

On a recent trip to San Francisco, Ray and I had a dining experience I’ll never forget at Prubechu Restaurant. As a proud Chamorro, I felt a deep sense of pride enjoying traditional Chamorro cuisine in a city known for its diverse food scene. Prubechu is the only restaurant in San Francisco serving authentic Chamorro dishes, and their commitment to sharing Guam’s culinary heritage with the world is both unique and inspiring. Here’s what we ordered and why it felt so special.

Chamorro Cuisine at Prubechu Restaurant

Prubechu highlights the bold, earthy flavors and unique traditions of Guam’s food culture. Each dish is prepared with ingredients that stay true to Guam’s roots, like coconut, red rice, and fina’denne’. Guam’s cuisine might not be mainstream, but it’s gaining traction.

[updated on 11/1/2024] In 2023, Chamorro food was highlighted as one of the top emerging regional cuisines in America, which makes Prubechu’s presence in San Francisco extra special.

Our Meal at Prubechu: Traditional Chamorro Dishes

Ray and I ordered some of Prubechu’s classic Chamorro offerings - better known as my favorite fiesta food! Each dish felt like a little piece of home.

Red Rice

We started with red rice, a staple in Guam’s cuisine and made with annatto seeds for that distinct red color. Red rice is more than just a side dish; it’s a must-have for any Chamorro meal, and Prubechu’s was perfectly done. The flavor was spot-on, with just the right hint of earthy richness from the annatto. According to Prubechu’s menu, their red rice uses locally sourced ingredients when possible, which is a thoughtful touch that adds to its authenticity.

Chicken Kelaguen & Coconut Titiyas

This was probably my favorite part of the meal. Chicken kelaguen is a popular Chamorro dish where chicken is grilled, chopped, and marinated in a citrusy mix of lemon juice, coconut, and green onions. The kelaguen had that tangy kick I love, balanced perfectly by the soft coconut titiyas (Chamorro flatbread) served on the side. Titiyas complements the dish by adding a slightly sweet, coconut flavor to each bite. Chicken kelaguen is high in protein and typically lower in calories compared to other appetizers, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for something light and flavorful.

BBQ Chicken Skewers

Barbecue is huge in Guam, and Prubechu’s BBQ chicken skewers captured that grilled, smoky flavor. The skewers were tender, juicy, and seasoned with a blend of soy, vinegar, and spices. In Guam, BBQ chicken is often served at gatherings, and Prubechu’s version made me feel like I was right back home. The U.S. barbecue industry has seen a growth rate of 3.5% in recent years, but Guam’s unique twist on BBQ, with its bold, citrusy marinades, stands out even in such a competitive space.

Black Fina’denne’

No Chamorro meal is complete without fina’denne’, a traditional dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, lemon juice, and peppers. Prubechu’s version, black fina’denne’, added a rich layer of flavor to every dish on the table. Spicy, tangy, and savory, it’s the perfect complement to BBQ, rice, or just about anything. Fina’denne’ is a staple of Chamorro cuisine, often made fresh and adjusted to taste, so I loved that Prubechu stayed true to the traditional recipe.

Why Eating at Prubechu Was So Meaningful

For me, eating at Prubechu was more than just a meal. It was a connection to my Chamorro heritage and a way to celebrate my culture far from home. Chamorro food isn’t widely available in the U.S., so finding a place that serves it authentically is special. Prubechu offers a taste of Guam in a way that feels genuine and respectful to our traditions.

If you’re in San Francisco and want a unique dining experience, I highly recommend Prubechu. Not only will you enjoy some delicious food, but you’ll also get a glimpse into Guam’s culinary world.