Introduction to Naks
A recent culinary venture is bringing Filipino comfort food to the East Village. Tucked away on 1st Avenue, Naks is one of the latest projects from Unapologetic Foods. The idea came from Chef Eric Valdez, who previously worked as a line cook at Michelin-starred Junoon, working side by side with Chef Chintan Pandya, Executive Chef at Unapologetic Foods.
The Concept and Inspiration
Valdez, who had worked with Chintan on projects like the restaurant Dhamaka, approached the team with the idea of opening a Filipino restaurant. “We saw the potential of doing regional Filipino cuisine,” said Valdez. Naks specializes in Filipino comfort food, taking inspiration from recipes Valdez’s mother would make for him growing up.
Menu and Offerings
Open for dinner and brunch, the menu is à la carte, leaning into classic Filipino flavors in a multitude of dishes, such as the Inihaw na Liempo (lemon soda bbq pork belly, citrus soy glaze), Adobo Rice (claypot chicken, pork belly garlic rice), Kare-Kare (braised beef cheeks, rich peanut stew), and a Lechon Platter (for two, crispy pork belly, jasmine rice, grilled and pickled vegetables). The menu also boasts fan favorite desserts with a Filipino twist: an ube cheesecake, a leche flan, and a buko pandan.
Authenticity and Tradition
For Valdez, keeping the menu traditional was incredibly important, as many cuisines (including Filipino food) can often become Americanized, and he wanted customers to get as authentic an experience as possible. “I think the problem here in New York is that all food is Americanized, everything is diluted. It’s like everything is adjusted to the American palate. That’s what we’re focusing on, to bring the authenticity of every dish that we’re making,” said Valdez.
Beverages and Drinks
In addition to the food menu, Naks prides itself on bringing Filipino flavors to the cocktail menu. The cocktails highlight elevated flavors, including the Ooh-Bae! (aged coconut rum, ube, cultured coconut, cream, pandan, club soda), Ambaboy (lechon fat washed bourbon, Filipino dark rum, lemongrass infused amaro, oloroso sherry, plantain), and the Peach Please (Filipino red brandy, calvados, yellow peach, brown butter, mango, salted vanilla), to name a few. The menu also features mocktails with the same flavors. Even the beers offered on the menu tie back to the Philippines, with options such as a basmati rice premium lager, a mango saison and a coconut IPA.
Making a Mark on New York’s Food Scene
Valdez wants Naks to be able to help make its mark on New York’s food scene. “We need to fight for our cuisine. We wanted the same respect that [New York] gave to some other cuisines, like Korean and Vietnamese cuisines. They have their own name on the map right now in New York, so we wanted that same attention, we wanted the same respect to get in our Filipino cuisine,” said Valdez.
Response and Recognition
Valdez says that the response to Naks has been incredibly positive, with the restaurant earning a spot on Esquire’s Best New Restaurant in 2024 list. Valdez told amNewYork that he had his reservations about how the Filipino community would react to the restaurant. “At first, when we opened, I think Filipinos would hate the restaurant, but it was the opposite — Filipinos are loving it. Everybody was telling me to keep the restaurant as it is because it’s bringing pride to our cuisine,” said Valdez.
Conclusion
Naks is a unique and exciting addition to the East Village, offering authentic Filipino comfort food and drinks. With its focus on traditional cuisine and commitment to authenticity, Naks is sure to make a lasting impression on New York’s food scene.
FAQs
Q: What type of cuisine does Naks serve?
A: Naks serves Filipino comfort food, with a focus on traditional and authentic dishes.
Q: Where is Naks located?
A: Naks is located on 1st Avenue in the East Village.
Q: What are some popular dishes on the menu?
A: Some popular dishes on the menu include Inihaw na Liempo, Adobo Rice, Kare-Kare, and the Lechon Platter.
Q: Does Naks offer any unique beverages?
A: Yes, Naks offers a range of Filipino-inspired cocktails and mocktails, as well as beers from the Philippines.
Q: Has Naks received any recognition or awards?
A: Yes, Naks was named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in 2024.
Q: How can I learn more about Naks or make a reservation?
A: You can visit the Naks website at naks.nyc for more information or to make a reservation.
