What began in 2022 as a tasty lead-up to the Pembroke Library Multicultural Festival has grown into a much-anticipated community tradition. The Multilicious initiative is back, running from June 1st to July 17th, offering residents and visitors a delicious way to explore Pembroke’s diverse dining scene while supporting local businesses.
Organized by the Pembroke Public Library, Multilicious blends multicultural literacy with strong partnerships between the library and local restaurants. By encouraging residents to try different cuisines, the initiative drives foot traffic to small businesses, supports the local economy, and highlights the cultural richness of the region.
Anusha Arulnanthi, Programming and Outreach Coordinator at the Pembroke Library, explains the motivation behind the initiative.
This year’s lineup features 12 participating restaurants, including three exciting new additions. Diners can look forward to offerings from Ashes Family Restaurant & Arcade, Bonanza, Chuck’s Roadhouse, F&N Good Food, Fresco’s Tap and Grill, Little Things Eatery, Loaf Artisan Bakery, Nomada Tacos, Sip Stirs, Thai Gardens, Zaytouna, and The Butcher’s Wife.
Multilicious encourages locals and newcomers alike to explore a wide variety of culinary traditions—from Middle Eastern and Thai to classic diner fare and artisanal baked goods. Each dish tells a story and offers a taste of the cultures that enrich Pembroke and the surrounding areas. Arulnanthi notes that last year’s event was a great success, with strong community participation and positive feedback from restaurant partners.
To take part, food lovers are encouraged to pick up a “food passport” and embark on a flavorful journey across the city. Each stamp brings you one step closer to discovering a new favorite dish—and supporting a small business in the process.
So get ready to savor every bite. Multilicious runs from June 1st to July 17th—and it’s tastier, more diverse, and more community-driven than ever!
(Written by: Emma Butler)