The charmed life of Happy Ongpauco-Tiu
I was recently invited to the birthday lunch of PR guru Susan Joven at Tsokolateria-Pamana restaurant in the new GH (Greenhills) Mall. It was a fun-filled afternoon, with Susan and her guests exchanging stories and gossip as we slowly but surely filled our tummies with the absolutely divine food that was served by Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, who owns the restaurant.
In-between bites, I was able to squeeze in a Q&A with Happy about her charmed life as a restaurateur, home décor retailer, fashionista, wife, mom, and more. With everything she has on her plate, you’d think she’d already be planning to take it easy, but no. As Happy reveals in our chat, there are still some other ventures she’d like to try her hand in.
Your family is behind Barrio Fiesta. What made you decide to have your own chain of restaurants?
“My family has always been involved in the restaurant business, and while I appreciate and respect the legacy of my family, I wanted to carve out my own path in the food industry. I opted to create my own brands, each with its own concept and identity, but all are grounded in a love for great food and quality service while still honoring the legacy of my family’s recipes. I believe that food should bring people together, and that’s what I aim to achieve through each of my restaurants.”
What was your childhood like while growing up in the restaurant business? When did you realize you wanted to pursue a culinary career? Did you take formal lessons?
“Growing up, the restaurant business was always a part of my life, and I learned a lot from my dad (Rod Ongpauco) who really molded me with his guidance. Whether it was in the kitchen or managing staff, the lessons I learned from him gave me a deep respect and love for food. I realized that food and hospitality were my true passions. Yes, I did take formal culinary training and honed my skills in various kitchens before deciding to open my own ventures.”
Aside from the restaurant and catering business, you also have a home store, My Happy Home. Tell us about this new business venture.
“My Happy Home is a pandemic project I started to pivot from the food business while still providing jobs for my staff during those tough times. I wanted to share my love for dinnerware and home décor with others. It’s all about creating spaces with your personal touch. I offer home décor, unique accessories, and curated tablescapes that can make any space feel special.”
You are famous for your tablescapes. Please share some tips on how to set the table.
“Tablescapes are all about creating a mood and an experience. My top tips would be (1) Start with your own creative idea. There are no limits to creating a great tablescape. (2) Look for pieces that match the style you want. Mixing and matching is the key! (3) Put your heart out in every design you make.”
How do you divide your time being a restaurateur, wife and mom? (Happy is married to Dexter Tiu, whose family is into energy, water, and real estate. Happy and Dexter have four sons.)
“Time management is key. I have learned to prioritize and delegate where necessary. There are days when work requires more focus, and others when family needs my attention. I have learned to organize my time and to be flexible at all times. I enjoy working at my restaurant while spending time with my kids. On a typical day, I leave the house before noon to check on the restaurants and attend meetings but by 5 p.m., I am on my way home. I make sure I have dinner with my husband and kids by 7 p.m., and by 9 p.m., I make sure my kids are asleep. Weekends are very precious to me so I can spend them with my family.”
What challenges do you deal with in the restaurant business? How do you manage stress? How do you unwind?
“Being in the restaurant business for decades is very challenging because you need to keep everything running smoothly from managing the staff, inventing new recipes, and keeping track of what is trending. I manage my stress by taking breaks and spending time with my family and friends. Being with family and friends is my relaxation.”
What is the restaurant scene like after the pandemic?
“Those were really tough times, but we’ve come a long way since then. While some challenges remain — such as the costs of goods going up — I’m happy to say that my businesses are recovering. Since the pandemic, there are still adjustments to make but we keep striving to offer the same quality of food and service.”
Aside from being a restaurateur, you are always fashionable. Tell us about your style and fashion sense.
“I love fashion and I got it from my mom (former Sampaguita actress Liberty Ylagan). I always opted to have timeless pieces that can stand any trend as time goes by. I always choose pieces that are comfortable and functional since I juggle my time between work and going out. My tip would be to have confidence in anything you wear.”
Do you still have other dreams that you want to fulfill?
“Absolutely! I believe that there’s always room to grow and evolve. I have always dreamed of having my own apparel brand since I am already in the business of retail. I am looking forward also to new restaurant concepts that are unique but still deeply rooted in my Filipino roots.”
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