Naks

- 201 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003

In a city brimming with diverse culinary experiences, Naks has carved out a special place for itself by bringing an "unapologetic" taste of Filipino heritage to New York's East Village. The name "Naks" itself is a Tagalog expression for "Wow!"—a perfect descriptor for the kind of reaction this restaurant aims to inspire. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s a journey into the soul of Filipino cuisine, with dishes that are a tribute to family traditions and regional flavors. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a place where every dish tells a story, and every cocktail is a work of art.

Naks is the vision of the same team behind acclaimed Indian restaurants like Dhamaka and Semma, and it carries the same spirit of authenticity and innovation. The menu, crafted by Chef Eric Valdez, is a personal ode to his upbringing in the Philippines, featuring lesser-known dishes alongside elevated classics. The focus is on a bold, no-compromise approach to flavor, which is a breath of fresh air for those seeking a genuine taste of the Philippines. The restaurant offers a variety of experiences, including an a la carte menu in the front and a communal dining space in the back that, at times, hosts a traditional kamayan-style feast where food is served on banana leaves and eaten with your hands.

The atmosphere at Naks is a perfect blend of casual, cozy, and trendy. It's the kind of spot where you can feel comfortable for a solo meal or a lively group dinner. The service is consistently highlighted as being a major part of the experience, with a friendly, attentive staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and passionate about the food. The cocktails are another standout feature, with creative concoctions that are "dangerously good" and add a fun, adventurous element to the dining. This combination of unforgettable food, amazing drinks, and top-tier service makes Naks a standout in the city's bustling food scene.

Naks is conveniently located at 201 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, in the heart of the East Village. This vibrant and easily accessible neighborhood makes it a great destination for locals and tourists alike. Getting there is simple, as it's just a short walk from the 14th Street stop on the PATH train, as well as multiple subway lines that serve the Union Square area. The street address is between 12th and 13th streets, making it an easy-to-find spot for anyone familiar with the neighborhood.

The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all patrons. For those who drive, both free and paid street parking options are available in the vicinity, which is a welcome convenience in a dense area like the East Village. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout service, providing flexibility for customers to enjoy the food on-site or at home.

Given its popularity and intimate setting, reservations are highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. While a wait is not uncommon, accepting reservations helps patrons plan their visit effectively. The atmosphere is casual yet trendy, attracting a diverse crowd, including groups and tourists eager to experience a fresh take on Filipino cuisine. The establishment is well-equipped with amenities like a bar onsite and restrooms, all contributing to a seamless and enjoyable visit.

• Dine-in: Naks offers a full dine-in experience with table service. The atmosphere is cozy and trendy, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or for a solo dining adventure.

• Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their food at home, Naks provides convenient takeout service. This is a great option for a quick bite or for a family meal.

• Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: The restaurant serves a variety of menus, including a notable weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner, ensuring there are delicious options available throughout the day.

• Reservations: Naks accepts reservations, and they are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to ensure you can secure a table without a long wait.

• Full Bar: The restaurant has an onsite bar that offers a great selection of alcohol, beer, wine, and hard liquor. Their cocktails are a particular highlight, known for being creative and delicious.

• Authentic Filipino Cuisine with a Twist: Naks is known for its "unapologetic" approach to Filipino food. Chef Eric Valdez brings a fresh perspective to heritage dishes, creating a menu that is both unique and delicious.

• Unforgettable Cocktails: The bar program is a major highlight, with a reputation for serving "dangerously good" and creative cocktails. Drinks are not only flavorful but can also be an experience in themselves, with some even coming out flaming.

• Exceptional Service: Customer reviews consistently praise the friendly, attentive, and accommodating staff. The service is a key part of the positive experience, with servers and chefs going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome.

• Kamayan-Style Feasts: The restaurant has been known to offer a traditional kamayan feast, a family-style meal served on a banana leaf, which provides a communal and hands-on dining experience.

• Interactive Dining: Some dishes, like the Adobo Rice, are mixed tableside, turning the meal into a "mini food show" and adding a fun, interactive element to the experience.

• High-Quality Ingredients: Naks uses high-quality ingredients to elevate their dishes, from the fresh Kinilaw (fish ceviche) to the smoky and flavorful Liempo (pork belly).

Address: 201 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (212) 387-1200

Choosing Naks is about embracing a dining experience that is both a culinary adventure and a heartfelt tribute to Filipino culture. The most compelling reason to visit is the food itself, which has been described as "unreal." While some menu items may appear to be classic Filipino dishes, Chef Eric Valdez’s regional approach and "twist" on tradition result in flavors that are both familiar and excitingly new. The Kinilaw, for example, is so fresh and flavorful that one reviewer mentioned wanting to drink the broth, while the Liempo is celebrated for being "smoky, sticky joy." This ability to elevate classic comfort food is a rare and a significant reason to choose Naks.

Beyond the food, the cocktail program is a powerful draw. The creative and delicious drinks are a major highlight and have a reputation for being some of the best in the city. They are not just an afterthought but an integral part of the meal, perfectly complementing the rich and complex flavors of the food. The interactive elements, such as the tableside mixing of the Adobo Rice, add a layer of fun and engagement that makes the dining experience unforgettable.

Finally, the service and atmosphere make the entire experience exceptional. The staff is consistently praised for being friendly, attentive, and genuinely enthusiastic about the food, which adds to the welcoming and communal vibe of the place. The restaurant’s atmosphere is trendy yet cozy, making it a great spot for various occasions, whether you're celebrating a birthday or just grabbing a casual dinner. This combination of phenomenal food, great cocktails, and a top-notch team makes Naks a must-visit destination in New York for anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience. It's a place where you'll leave with a "Wow!" on your lips and a desire to "sell a kidney to eat here again."

Naks

201 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA