SEATTLE, USA — Gregorio Rosas, a Filipino in Seattle, began his American journey in 1979 as a dishwasher at The Turf, a diner in the famous Pike Place Market. Orphaned and rescued by a kind-hearted Jewish warehouse owner, Rosas worked tirelessly every day, starting at 5 a.m., to make ends meet.
Fast-forward to 2001, through perseverance and dedication, Greg was able to purchase The Turf and later renamed it “Ludi’s” in 2008. This move revived the restaurant, and it quickly became a bustling spot for locals and tourists.
During the pandemic, Greg took over a struggling restaurant and re-established Ludi’s at 120 Stewart Street. Today, his restaurant is a favorite among Filipinos and other nationalities alike. With popular Filipino dishes like Kare-Kare, Silogs, and Ube Pancakes, Ludi’s has become a symbol of Filipino pride in Seattle.
Greg credits his success to Aling Ludi, who raised and supported him, passing down the traditional Filipino recipes he now serves. Despite his success, Greg continues to work hard every day, waking up at 5 a.m., and has brought his entire family to the US.
His advice? Never lose hope. “There’s always a brighter side, always a rainbow at the end of the tunnel,” he shared.