Portland Eats: Magna Kusina – A Taste of the Philippines

After living in Seattle (let’s be real, a bit of a "food desert" for diverse, bold flavors!), I jumped at the chance to try authentic Filipino cuisine in Portland—and Magna Kusina did not disappoint! Let’s dive into the deliciousness, dish by dish: Sisig 🐷: This classic Filipino dish was a total standout! The pork is grilled until it’s crispy around the edges, with tender, juicy meat inside—think perfectly caramelized, savory, and just a hint of smokiness. Every bite has that satisfying "crunch" from the charred bits, making it impossible to put down. It’s seasoned to perfection, balancing salty, umami, and a subtle kick—pure comfort food with a Filipino twist! Mom’s Crab Fat Noodles 🦀🍜: Hands down, my favorite dish of the meal! The rich, black squid ink noodles are tossed in a luxuriously creamy crab fat sauce—each strand is coated in that briny, sweet, and buttery crab flavor that’s absolutely addictive. Chunks of fresh crab meat add even more depth, making every forkful feel indulgent. It’s warm, flavorful, and tastes like a hug from "mom"—hence the name! You’ll be scraping the bowl clean. Lumpia 🥟: If you love spring rolls, you’ll adore lumpia! These Filipino-style rolls are stuffed with savory ground pork (and a mix of veggies like carrots and cabbage) , then fried until golden and crispy. They’re served with a tangy sweet-and-sour dipping sauce that cuts through the crispiness—light, crunchy, and totally snackable. Perfect for sharing (or hoarding, no judgment)! Grilled Skewers Platter 🍢: A great pick for sharing! The platter comes with juicy grilled pork skewers (marinated in a sweet-savory sauce that’s full of garlic and herb flavor) , tender seared scallops (sweet, briny, and cooked just right), and silky tofu (grilled to have a slight char, absorbing all the delicious marinade). It’s a mix of protein and texture that lets you taste a little bit of everything—ideal for trying new flavors! Magna Kusina is a gem for anyone craving bold, homey Filipino flavors—especially if you’re coming from a spot with limited international food options. The portions are generous, the flavors are authentic, and it feels like eating a meal cooked with care. #RestaurantRecommendation #PortlandFood #PortlandEats #FilipinoFood #PortlandFoodie #MaineEats #AuthenticFilipino