Vibrant Flavors, Family Vibes: Tita Tootsies Pops Up in Chicago

Within the vibrant city of Chicago, a new pop-up has been capturing a lot of attention. Enter Tita Tootsies. Combining traditional Filipino flavors with the energy of Chicago nightlife, Tita Tootsies is more than just a culinary experience: it’s a fusion of culture, food, and friendship. The founders’ vision shines through every detail, down to the name itself, which holds a sentimental story.

Name with Heart and a Beach-Born Dream Team

Before landing on the name “Tita Tootsies,” the co-founders knew they wanted something authentic, charming, and heavily rooted in family. “As we brainstormed, I asked Chris if there was a name that held personal meaning and embodied our vision. He said, ‘Tootsie’—his mom’s nickname—and we looked at each other as if we’d struck gold,” one of the founders recalls. Named after a beloved figure, Tita Tootsies is so much more than a catchy title. It’s a name that significantly pays tribute to heritage and embodies the very definition of warmth.

The team behind Tita Tootsies are Chris Inumerable (@chrisclassick), Dijon "Dj" Coleman (@dijon.like.the.mustard), and Chef Bryan Collante (@bryan.collante)—banded together in a way that felt like they were fated and destined to be together. During a family trip to the Philippines, Chris and his co-founder began musing about the nightlife in Chicago. They agreed that the scene felt vibrant but definitely lacked diversity. “After a night of brainstorming on a beach, fueled by a few drinks, we had a vision: bring in good music, create great food, and infuse a unique vibe.” Having Chef Bryan on board—a culinary “magician” and friend since 2013—the dream easily took shape. “Bryan’s artistry was the missing piece to bring our vision to life.”

A New Rhythm with a Tropical Flavor

When it comes to the menu, Tita Tootsies has that dish that is an absolute showstopper: Sinigang wings. “When we unveiled these wings at the Emporium pop-up, they quickly became my favorite,” says one co-founder. Certainly not your ordinary chicken wings as it combined the rich, layered flavors of the traditional sinigang with the familiar crunch of a chicken wing—an ultimate fusion of Filipino soul food and Chicago Street style proving to be a definite must-try for any foodie seeking a bolder and more unforgettable flavor.

More than just a place to eat, at Tita Tootsies you’ll get to experience the blending of the traditional Filipino flavors with the pulse of Chicago’s nightlife. The founders aim to produce a vibe that is a modern homage to their roots. “Filipino culture has long had a presence in Chicago, but we wanted to bring it to the forefront in a fresh, exciting way,” they explain. By combining inventive dishes with eclectic music, Tita Tootsies invites guests to feel at home while exploring something completely new.

A Warm Welcome   

Nothing short of heartwarming has been the feeling when it comes to the support Tita Tootsies has received since it has launched. “From day one, our followers have supported us like family, and that energy keeps us going,” the founders share. Every event at Tita Tootsies aims to create an experience that leaves guests feeling like they’re part of a really big, happy family. As the founders plan for a brick-and-mortar location, they hope to make that welcoming energy a permanent part of Chicago’s dining scene.

Secrets and Surprises: A Hint of What's to Come

While the team is keeping future plans under wraps, they’re dropping hints of what’s to come at each event. “If you join us, you’ll see clues pointing to what’s next,” they say with a smile. Tita Tootsies’ events are more than food—they’re an experience that’s designed to keep guests coming back for a whole lot more.

With its unique blend of Filipino culture, Chicago spirit, and family vibes, Tita Tootsies has brought a fresh and much-needed energy to the city’s food scene. It’s a place to share laughs, create memories, and enjoy a taste of Filipino warmth—all under one roof.