A Taste of Little Manila at Ging’s Chicharon

Posted on February 24, 2026February 24, 2026 by Intern DSA

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By Rose Son

Did you know that during the 20^th century, Downtown Stockton was home to the largest Filipino migrant population in the United States? Although only remnants of their enclave exist in the area today, a Filipino-owned business in downtown called Ging’s Chicharon brings back memories of the once bustling Little Manila.

Flavors of the Philippines

Located in the middle of Filipino Center Plaza, Ging’s Chicharon pays homage to its community through food. They carry an abundance of authentic Filipino dishes that are bound to bring warmth to both the heart and soul. As you walk through the entrance door, you’re instantly greeted with a vibrant orange interior that perfectly reflect the flavors of the Philippines. Savory, garlicky aromas permeate the air from the diverse entree selection at the food bar. It’s a paradise for people who love options because of the variety of stir fry, soup, and small bite possibilities, but come early because they are quick to sell out.

Offering a brunch and lunch menu, customers can come in as early as 10:00AM for a true Filipino breakfast plate of tocino and eggs with rice or as late as 4:00PM for a lunch plate of pancit paired with barbeque skewers. Their menu is not fixed, and it rotates depending on how many people there are to support the back of the house, so be sure to be mindful when arriving.

During my visit to Ging’s Chicharon, I got a lunch plate with half rice and pancit paired with menudo. Even though I only went with the one entree plate, my take-out container was filled with enough for two. The rice came warm out of the rice cooker. The pancit was nice and peppery with seasoning. The menudo, the star of the show, was jam-packed with rich umami flavors and a slight hint of sweetness. Ging’s is not a fusion inspired place, so you’re guaranteed to be introduced to flavors unlike before if you’re new to Filipino cuisine like me.

Comforting Recounts

When speaking with the worker, I learned that the restaurant opened their storefront in January of 2025, and previously operated out of a location in Lathrop, CA. They occasionally participate in community events where they sell their most beloved item, chicharon or crispy pork skin. However, in stores, they said their best sellers are chicken adobo and lumpia.

A customer I spoke to regularly comes to Ging’s Chicharon from Lodi, CA. She said that it’s worth the drive to Downtown Stockton just to get her fix of Filipino food. Another customer that I mingled with shared that she’s of Filipino American descent, and she feels more connected to her community just knowing that there’s Filipino businesses in the Stockton. It’s clear as day that Ging’s Chicharon’s presence in Downtown Stockton brings many people feelings of comfort and home.

Bookmark and Bring a Friend

So bookmark Ging’s Chicharon on Beli, a restaurant-focused social media app that allows users to share and rank food spots with friends. The next time you want to treat yourself or a friend out to a meal, come to Ging’s Chicharon for authentic and community-loved Filipino food. The people, food, and atmosphere make the experience a heartwarming one. Show them love at 6 West Main Street in Downtown Stockton. Support local, you won’t regret it!

Information

📍 Address: 6 West Main Street, Stockton, CA, 95202

📅 Hours: 10:00AM – 4:00PM on Tues-Fri, 10:00AM – 3:00PM on Sat

📞 Phone Numbers: (209) 475-8352

🎭 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gingschicharon/

📸 Instagram: @gingschicharon

Golden Rose Barbershop has all your barber needs✂️

Posted on August 18, 2025August 18, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By: Catalina F.G.

Cut, Snip, Raze

The Golden Rose Barbershop Co was established in 1917. They have two locations, here, in Downtown Stockton and in midtown on Miracle Mile. They are the oldest barbershop in Stockton, CA, where new trends meet vintage history. When you walk inside, it has an antique feeling to it. They have animal decor, abstract paintings, and exotic plants. The staff also has a welcoming vibe and are ready to be your new barber! They offer haircuts and shaves. Let’s not forget they specialize in men’s luxury grooming.

Congratulations

This year, Golden Rose Barbershop has won 1st place in Downtown Stockton’s 4th of July business decoration contest. They had a very large USA flag hung up in their shop. They won numerous prizes for being first place including the blog you’re reading now!

Over the years, Golden Rose Barbershop has taken 1st place multiple times in our holiday decoration competitions! The photos above illustrate a few of their beautiful decor displays.

Services

Golden Rose offers the following services:

Luxury Beard Trim – $40
Luxury Haircut – $45
Luxury Shave – $65
Luxury Haircut/Beard Trim – $75
Luxury Shave/Haircut – $100

If you want to feel like a dapper gent from yesteryear, book an appointment at Golden Rose to experience their stylish and luxurious services.

Did you know?

Golden Rose Barbershop accepts walk-ins and credit cards, cash, and apple pay. They are wheelchair accessible, street parking and validated parking available, bike parking available, customer restrooms, and provides free Wi-Fi. They also have online booking available now! Saturdays are appointments only.

Book Online Here: The Golden Rose Barbershop Co

Information

Location: 15 S San Joaquin St, Stockton, Ca 95202
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30AM – 6:00PM
Instagram: @thegoldenrosebarbershop
Facebook: The Golden Barbershop Co
Book Online: Book here

🍜Discovering Johnny Wokker: A New Culinary Gem in Downtown Stockton

Posted on June 24, 2025June 24, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Olivia Lee

Downtown Stockton has welcomed an exciting new addition to its dining scene with the opening of Johnny Wokker, a vibrant Asian restaurant that promises to bring authentic flavors right to the heart of our city. About two months ago, this restaurant opened its doors for the first time in downtown, conveniently located right next to Regal Cinema, making it the perfect spot for a pre-movie dinner. As someone always on the lookout for great Asian cuisine, I couldn’t wait to experience what Johnny Wokker had to offer.

A Delightful Dining Experience

Walking into Johnny Wokker, I was immediately impressed by the spacious and comfortable interior. The restaurant has a surprisingly large layout that feels both welcoming and modern, creating an atmosphere where you can truly relax and enjoy your meal. For my dining experience, I decided to try two of their signature dishes: the Pad See Ew and Crab Fried Rice with Shrimp.

The Pad See Ew was absolutely phenomenal – featuring perfectly cooked spicy noodles tossed with tender beef and fresh vegetables that created a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each bite delivered just the right amount of heat and savory flavor that left me wanting more. The Crab Fried Rice with Shrimp was equally impressive, packed with generous portions of fresh crab meat and plump shrimp, all well-seasoned and fried to perfection.

What struck me most was not only how delicious both dishes were, but also the generous portion sizes that definitely provided great value for money. The friendly and attentive staff added to the positive experience, making sure we felt welcomed and well taken care of throughout our visit.

Your Next Downtown Dining Destination

If you’re in the mood for authentic Asian food at a reasonable price, Johnny Wokker should definitely be on your list. With its convenient downtown location, comfortable atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service, this new restaurant has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a great meal before catching a movie next door, Johnny Wokker delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss out on experiencing this fantastic new addition to Stockton’s culinary landscape!

Information

Location : 222 N. El Dorado, Suite J, Stockton, CA
Opening Hours : Mon to Sat, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Social Media(IG) : @‌johnnywokker_downtown

👮‍♂️ National Night Out 2024 in Downtown Stockton!

Posted on July 26, 2024July 31, 2024 by Intern DSA

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By Zachary Hulsey

National Night Out is back, bigger and better than ever!

Enjoy a day of family-friendly activities that promote unity, love, and community strength. The 2024 Downtown Stockton National Night Out event – hosted by the San Joaquin County Office of Education, Parents by Choice, Stockton Ports, and the Downtown Stockton Alliance — will take place Tuesday, August 6th, from 5:30 – 8:30 PM at downtown’s Banner Island Ballpark, located at 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, CA. There will be carnival games, giveaways, community resources, workshops, music, local mascots, raffle prizes, and much more!

The event takes place the same night of a Stockton Ports matchup against the Lake Elsinore Storm, which starts at 7:05 PM. The first 600 people who attend the event will get in free!

As Stockton continues to grow into an even more amazing city, it is imperative that we actively engage and unite! Some of the organizations which will be represented at this event include: Stockton PD, Child Abuse Prevention Council, Visit Stockton, Stockton Kings, LAZ Parking, San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, Youthbuild San Joaquin, SJ Regional Transit District, DCA, Codestack Academy, Head Start San Joaquin, UOP Athletics, YMCA, Ready to Work, Uplift All, Behavioral Health Services, El Concilio, Harvest Home Animal Shelter, Scottish Rite, SJVV, Girl Scouts, SJC Probation, and Children’s Choice. Through events like National Night Out, we engage families across Stockton; bridge community disconnects; and focus on creating a bright future for our youth. By building a better relationship between law enforcement and residents, we can create a greater sense of community and safety.

So, if you’re planning on attending a National Night Out gathering in Stockton this year, don’t miss the chance to come on out to Downtown Stockton’s Banner Island Ballpark to catch a ballgame and enjoy this extraordinary community event! In addition to all of the activities and resources, you’ll have a beautiful view of the Courthouse and the downtown waterfront. You might even see the Stockton Ports mascot, Splash!

I encourage you all to bring your family and friends to this free community event! See you there, Stockton!

When: Tuesday, August 6th, 5:30 – 8:30 PM

Where: 404 W. Fremont Street, Stockton, CA, 95203 | Banner Island Ballpark

Tickets: First 600 attendees get in FREE! First-come, first-served, so get there early! If you aren’t in the first 600 attendees, here is the link to purchase game tickets.