Kooya Filipino Eatery — Restaurant in Dubai

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Kooya Filipino Eatery, a hidden gem of a restaurant nestled in Dubai Marina. From the moment I entered, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere that transported me straight to the heart of the Philippines. I must say, Kooya has truly captured the essence of Filipino cuisine. Let's begin with the star of the menu: the Chicken Inasal. One bite of this mouthwatering dish, and I was immediately blown away. The chicken was remarkably tender and juicy, cooked to perfection, and each bite was an explosion of flavors. The marinade used was a symphony of spices, resulting in a delectable combination of tanginess and smokiness that made my taste buds dance with delight. Kooya's Chicken Inasal is undoubtedly a standout and a must-try for any Filipino food enthusiast. Another dish that tugged at my heartstrings was the Palabok. It was like a nostalgic journey back to the Philippines. The silky rice noodles were generously coated with a savory sauce that was both rich and flavorful. The toppings, including shrimp, eggs and fried chicken skin, added an irresistible crunch and an authentic touch. It was a comforting dish that reminded me of family gatherings and festive celebrations. To balance out the hearty flavors, I ordered the Mango Lychee Salad, and it was a refreshing revelation. The combination of mixed greens, fresh mint leaves, succulent lychees, creamy feta cheese, and delicate sweet potato strings was a true symphony of textures and flavors. The mango dressing provided a tangy, sweet and vibrant burst, tying all the ingredients together into a harmonious medley. This salad not only satisfied my cravings but also left me feeling revitalized and healthy. The Iced Buko Pandan was a delightful tropical treat that I couldn't resist. Sipping on the creamy coconut pandan milk infused with fragrant pandan flavor brought me pure bliss. The addition of jelly and tapioca pearls added a playful twist, making every sip an adventure. It was a cool and refreshing beverage that perfectly complemented the bold and vibrant flavors of the Filipino cuisine. To complete my meal, I indulged in the classic Filipino dessert, Halo-Halo. Kooya's rendition of this beloved treat was truly exceptional. The layers of sweet beans, jellies, fruits, shaved ice, and luscious leche flan created a symphony of sweetness. Each spoonful was a delightful blend of textures and flavors, providing the perfect ending to a remarkable dining experience. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Chef JP Anglo for his culinary prowess and for bringing the authentic taste of the Philippines to Dubai through Kooya Filipino Eatery. The flavors and presentation of the dishes were simply outstanding, capturing the essence of Filipino cuisine with precision and care. Furthermore, I would like to express my gratitude to Vee and Kyle, the wonderful staff members who provided exceptional service throughout my dining experience. Their attentiveness, knowledge, and warm demeanor added an extra touch of hospitality, making me feel like a valued guest. In conclusion, Kooya Filipino Eatery is undeniably the best Filipino restaurant in Dubai. From the tender and juicy Chicken Inasal to the nostalgic Palabok and the refreshing Mango Lychee Salad, every dish served is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The Iced Buko Pandan and Halo-Halo are the perfect finishing touches to a memorable meal. I highly recommend Kooya to anyone seeking an immersive Filipino dining experience that will transport them back to the vibrant streets of the...

KOOYA RESTAURANT Dubai Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Overall Rating: 7.5/10)

Nestled in Dubai Marina, Kooya Restaurant is a renowned Filipino dining spot helmed by Chef JP. The restaurant's name, "Kooya," stems from the Ilonggo term for "kuya," a gentle form of address. The establishment boasts a tidy ambiance, featuring minimalist yet modernized Filipino Nipa Hut-inspired decor. Our party of six ventured here, though reservations were regrettably not accommodated.

Chicken Sisig: Served sizzling on a platter, this dish leaned more toward a mayo-laden profile rather than the customary onion-based preparation. While spice levels were relatively subdued for my palate, the amalgamation of crunchy and tender chicken in every spoonful made for a satisfying bite. The presentation of the dish was artfully executed.

Chicken Inasal: Liberally drizzled with oil, the well-cooked grilled chicken exhibited a delightful lemony essence. The chicken maintained a tender texture without any rubbery undertones. Served sliced, consuming it was effortless, and once again, the presentation was commendable.

Tostadong Bulalo: A novel twist on bulalo, this rendition featured gravy in lieu of the customary broth. The dish, dominated by succulent bone marrow, proved a tad greasy. The beef, possibly pressure-cooked, exhibited tenderness, and the presentation was thoughtfully arranged.

Kare Kare: A staple at Filipino celebrations, Kare Kare adhered to tradition in its preparation. The meat, akin to the bulalo, was tender and flavorful, evoking fondness for its resemblance to Indian curry. The presentation did justice to the dish's allure.

Tortang Talong: Grilled eggplant omelette took on a special allure with the addition of crab paste. Topped with garlic floss, diced tomatoes, and onions, the dish showcased an appealing aesthetic.

Chicken Lumpia with Shrimp: An essential Filipino starter was given a twist with the inclusion of shrimp. Crispy exterior yielded to a soft, juicy interior. A minor recommendation would be to address the edges' burnt portion by refining the folding technique.

Garlic Rice: Unpretentious yet satisfying.

Melon Lychee Cooler: A refreshing respite on hot days.

Halo Halo Grande: Although slightly steep in price, this expertly crafted dessert was meticulously layered. The server's pour was gratifying, ensuring each component of a genuine Filipino halo-halo was represented. My Indian companions drew parallels to a Falooda.

The final tab amounted to AED 600. The servers exhibited attentiveness, catering to allergies and inquiries adeptly. Western patrons seeking an introduction to Filipino cuisine would find Kooya Restaurant an inviting gateway. As a suggestion, the inclusion of a call system for summoning waitstaff, in place of vocal hails, would enhance the dining experience.

Evaluation: Food: 7.5/10 Ambiance:...

A Flavorful Journey to the Philippines at Kooya Filipino Eatery

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Kooya Filipino Eatery in Dubai, and I must say it was a delightful experience that transported me to the vibrant streets of the Philippines.

The moment I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The contemporary decor combined with subtle Filipino touches created a cozy and comfortable ambiance, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.

The service at Kooya Filipino Eatery was exceptional. The staff members were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than happy to guide us through the selection of dishes and provide recommendations based on our preferences. Their genuine passion for Filipino cuisine was evident and added a personal touch to the dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. Kooya Filipino Eatery truly excels in capturing the authentic flavors of the Philippines with a modern twist. The menu offered a wide variety of traditional Filipino dishes, each prepared with utmost care and attention to detail. I had the pleasure of trying their kare-kare, a classic Filipino dish, and it was a delightful explosion of flavors. The tender and succulent meat, combined with vegetables and rich peanut sauce soy, was simply irresistible.

Apart from the kare-kare, I also sampled the chicken inasal, I was captivated by the tantalizing aroma of lemongrass and spices. The presentation was simple yet enticing, with perfectly grilled chicken pieces served on a bed of fragrant steamed rice. The golden-brown skin had a slight char, adding a smoky element to the dish. Taking my first bite, I was instantly impressed by the succulence and tenderness of the chicken. The meat was juicy and infused with the flavors of the marinade, which consisted of a harmonious blend of soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, and various spices

Another dish that we tried is pancit molo, as soon as the pancit molo was served, I was greeted by a fragrant aroma that made my mouth water in anticipation. The bowl was filled with a clear, flavorful broth that had been simmered to perfection. Floating in the broth were delicate dumplings filled with ground pork, shrimps, and aromatic herbs.

Throughout my visit, the staff at Kooya Filipino Eatery went above and beyond to create memorable moments. From engaging conversations about Filipino culture to surprising us with complimentary dessert, their attention to detail made the experience truly special.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Kooya Filipino Eatery to anyone looking for an authentic Filipino dining experience in Dubai. Whether you're a fan of Filipino cuisine or curious to explore a new culinary adventure, Kooya Filipino Eatery is the place to be. Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality, and you won't be...