Luna’s LUNpias is preparing to introduce its first standalone restaurant in Poway. The Filipino-fusion eatery will replace Niko’s Halo-Halo & Sari-Sari at Poway Center.
Owner Luna Mortenson tells What Now San Diego the pandemic-born business started out as a fluke, with a casual post on social media offering orders of her handmade lumpia. “Next thing you know, I’m rolling hundreds of hundreds of lumpia at 4 in the morning and my husband asked if I needed some help,” Mortenson shares.
What began as a project to focus on while cooped up at home, Mortenson explains she initially intended to operate her accidental business until the pandemic slowed and regular life got back to normal.
Cut to 2023, the pop-up eatery has built a following through its regular visits at local breweries, farmers markets, catering, and corporate events. Now Luna and her husband Rex Mortenson have quit their day jobs to commit to growing Luna’s Lunpias and opening their first restaurant space. The Mortenson’s have brought their son Elijah into the business to handle operations and to continue making appearances at select pop-ups and special events.
Over the last several years, Luna’s Lunpias has expanded its menu to offer a mix of traditional Filipino dishes and a new spin on classic flavors with the addition of entrees and desserts. Beyond freshly-rolled LUNpia in options like ground pork, beef, shrimp, veggie, and even plant-based and gluten-free options, Luna’s also offers Pancit, Chicken Adobo, Bistek, and Arroz Caldo.
Luna’s LUNpias is also home to the PancitLUNpia Cakes and ALL LUNpia Cakes, savory “cakes” made for any occasion for those looking for an alternative to the usual sweet layer cake. However, guests with a sweet tooth can indulge in dessert options like Banana Turon, Ube Cannoli, Ube Blossom Cookies, Ube Rice Krispy treats, and mini custard bites.
Luna’s LUNpias Filipino Fusion Eatery is in the process of making renovations to its new home. The Poway restaurant is projected to open in Summer 2023. Stay updated on a grand opening announcement by following Luna’s LUNpias on Instagram.
