AS FUNNY as a “whoopie pie” may sound, bringing these whimsy treats to the country was no easy feat that a Thomasian dared to explore.
Stanley Tan, who graduated with a degree in Food Technology in 2005, crafted the My Cookie Lab, a pastry shop specializing on creating whoopie pies or two cookies stacked with creamy fillings in between.
After learning how to create whoopies in an American cookie shop in Taiwan, Tan brought the foreign treat home to the Philippines.
“We have a strict quality control on our process and we don’t substitute our ingredients with lesser quality ones,” Tan said in an interview with the Varsitarian.
Three years have passed since Tan first brought the whoopie home and there are now over 30 flavors to choose from—a wide array from the original six. Some of their popular creations are the Dark Vader whoopie pie, the Cookies and Cream whoopie pie, the S’mores whoopie pie, the Zhao pie, the Red Velvet crinkles, the Green Tea Almond crinkles and the Coco Choco.
He started out by selling his goods at food bazaars in malls and through online selling. The Food Technology major also sell whoopies by supplying to milk tea and cookie shops around Metro Manila.
Like other entrepreneurs, Tan had a rocky and problematic start which he solved with mere hardwork, dedication, and deligence.
One of the solutions he came up with is utilizing the benefits of promoting his craft through social media, a platform that plays a crucial work for startup entrepreneurs.
“It is very important that you have a passion in what you do and to always think that someone up there is looking after you,” he said. “My advice is to continue learning. Try to have a very diverse palate also. Keep experimenting on different flavors and cuisines.”
For Tan, he may had long years before carving his name in food and entrepreneurship scene, but these long years meant ensuring quality service and bringing satistaction to customers.
“I wanted to make sure our product, process and manpower was ready. I didn’t want to rush something and make a substandard product.”
The My Cookie Lab branch found in Banawe street in Quezon City is the first testament to the Tan’s journey to success.
