“Naks!” New Filipino Restaurant in New York City Offers Unique ‘Kamayan’ Experience

Nestled in the vibrant East Village of New York City, “Naks!” emerges as a beacon of Filipino culinary excellence, led by seasoned Filipino-American chef Eric Valdez.

The “Kamayan” Feast Experience

According to ABS-CBN News, at “Naks!”, diners are treated to an unparalleled dining experience centered around the traditional Filipino “Kamayan” feast, comprising an exquisite 18-course tasting menu that tantalizes the taste buds and ignites the senses.

Chef Valdez and his dedicated team have meticulously crafted each dish to perfection, presenting a symphony of flavors that mainstream Filipino restaurants rarely showcase.

True to its name, “Naks!”—equivalent to the English expression “Nice!”—aims to evoke excitement and delight with every bite, celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of Filipino cuisine.

Following six months of research and immersion in the Philippines, Chef Valdez highlights lesser-known Filipino delicacies that often escape notice in the United States.

Standout Dishes

Among the standout dishes is the “Bas-uy,” a tantalizing blend of beef flank and tripe cooked in cow’s blood, reminiscent of a soupy “Dinuguan.” Additionally, the “pritong bola” offers a unique twist with its chicken and shrimp delicately dipped in fishball sauce, reminiscent of the flavors found in street food carts across the Philippines.

“Naks!” also introduces diners to the exquisite flavors of “Swaki,” featuring sea urchin roe complemented by red onion and vinegar sauce—a culinary gem inspired by Chef Valdez’s culinary journey in Cebu.

In addition to its innovative main courses, “Naks!” offers an array of appetizers that capture the essence of Filipino street food culture, including succulent chicken skin barbecue, grilled scallops, and the traditional “Lapu-Lapu” steamed fish served with mayonnaise.

Co-owned by Indian-American restaurateurs Chef Chintan Pandya and Roni Mazumar of the renowned “Unapologetic Foods,” “Naks!” is a testament to Chef Valdez’s culinary prowess and dedication.

Chef Valdez’s Mission

With “Naks!”, Chef Eric Valdez not only aims to tantalize the palates of diners but also to inspire fellow Filipino chefs to elevate and promote Philippine cuisine on the global stage. Through his culinary creations, Chef Valdez seeks to open doors and shed light on the authentic flavors and traditions that define genuine Filipino food.