Kusina Ni Maya — Restaurant in El Nido

If you're visiting El Nido, Palawan, and craving authentic Filipino cuisine, this newly opened gem is definitely worth a stop! We had the pleasure of dining here on both our first day for lunch and the following evening for dinner, and the experience was consistently fantastic.

The restaurant’s ambiance is welcoming and fresh, with a modern yet cozy vibe. The space is immaculately clean, which is always a plus when you're enjoying a meal.

We started with some classic Filipino dishes that were absolutely delicious. The Ginataang Isda was a standout, with tender fish cooked in a rich, creamy coconut sauce that was perfectly balanced and flavorful. The Adobong Kangkong (water spinach) was a simple yet delightful dish, the savory and tangy flavors of the adobo sauce complementing the freshness of the greens.

For our mains, we enjoyed the comforting Beef Caldereta—a hearty stew with melt-in-your-mouth beef chunks and a deep, flavorful sauce. The Beef Bulalo was another highlight; the broth was clear and rich, and the beef shank was cooked to perfection, falling off the bone with every bite.

Finally, to end our meals on a sweet note, we couldn't resist the Suman na Mango. This traditional Filipino dessert, with sticky rice and fresh, ripe mango, was the perfect light finish to our meal.

Throughout both visits, the service was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a long-time fan, this place is a must-visit for its delicious food, warm service, and clean, inviting atmosphere. Highly recommended for...

Absolutely phenomenal! Everything from the food, service, and ambiance. On my family's short visit we came back twice. The location is close to the airport and about a 10- 15 min tricycle ride from the city. It is also close to Lio if you were looking to explore the area. I would definitely take the trip out for a little break from the downtown area. Filipino "comfort food" that leaves you feeling full, but not heavy with recipes made with thoughtful ingredients. We ordered ginataang gulay, lapu- lapu, pork sisig, grilled liempo for four people. The multiple, distinct flavors play in your mouth and linger making it a memorable meal. The halo halo was superb, remarkable- the ice is made in a special way that creates a texture and flavor like no other(taste it on it's own first before mixing, highly recommended in combo with the leche flan). The space itself is a haven with local and foreign customers, looks like there were regulars as well. The interior was well curated with cozy lighting and seating areas for larger groups or a date for two. You will be greeted with attentive, hospitable service that seems like a family on its own. We were lucky to meet the down to earth, passionate owners who kindly made rounds at every table and routinely checked on the kitchen staff and servers. What a beautiful, convivial place they have created in...

We decided to go here after our sunday service to eat lunch with my family. My brothers family has been here several times and they liked that it's pretty affordable (If you have lived in El Nido, where everything is expensive, it's a gem to find a restaurant that is affordable and tastes delicious)

We came here around 11am, and ordered a bunch, but we requested my father's bulalo first since he is very hungry and he can get grumpy lol. They served his bulalo within 10 mins after arrival, meanwhile all our food took around 30 mins to be prepared and served to all of us. I ordered Beef Pares with rice and Dynamite which taste good, the pares reminds of the one I had in España, Manila during my college years although it's sauce was a tad sweeter. The dynamite was hot and crunchy but my nephew had one chili without cheese haha.

The Pork Binagoongan was on point, The bulalo was good and there are plenty of meat, my nephews liked their fried chicken, the pork bbq was good also and the sizzling tofu's serving was huge. The leche flan is super creamy as well but the taste is not too sweet.

It was a good meal. We even have extras we took home since all of us are full. Added this to our list of our favorite resto...