Chef Francis Ang is a Filipino-American chef known for his personal, innovative approach to Filipino cuisine. Born in San Francisco and raised in the Philippines, Ang’s culinary journey bridges two worlds — blending classical technique with the storytelling of his heritage.

After moving back to San Francisco from Manila at age 19, Ang trained in some of the city’s most respected kitchens, including Gary Danko and Fifth Floor (now Dirty Habit), where he flourished under Executive Chef David Bazirgan. During this time, he earned accolades such as Food & Wine’s “People’s Best Pastry Chef” and Zagat’s 30 Under 30.

In 2016, Ang and his wife, Dian, embarked on a six-month culinary immersion across the Philippine islands to reconnect with their roots. That journey inspired the creation of Pinoy Heritage, a pop-up dedicated to telling the story of Filipino food through a modern lens. Pinoy Heritage quickly gained acclaim, winning Eater SF’s Pop-Up of the Year in 2018, Ang was also named San Francisco Chronicle’s Rising Star Chef, and StarChefs’ Rising Star Chef in 2019.

In 2021, Ang and his wife' s longtime dream became a reality with the opening of Abacá, a contemporary Filipino-Californian restaurant located in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf. Since opening, Abacá has received national and international recognition, including being named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America (2021), one of the New York Times’ Top 50 Restaurants (2022), and a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best New Restaurant. Most recently, Abacá was selected for the World’s 50 Best Discovery list as one of San Francisco’s top culinary destinations.

Abacá continues to honor Ang’s heritage while celebrating California’s seasonal bounty — all rooted in community, culture, and craft.