Though it’s only been open for a few months, Magna Kainan, Denver’s newest Filipino restaurant, is already generating buzz. The restaurant is attracting both Filipino food enthusiasts and newcomers to Filipino cuisine.
Chef de cuisine Jodee Reyes shares that around 90% of their clientele are Filipino, but many newcomers are discovering the restaurant as well. “I was like, ‘Where are you all coming from?’” Reyes laughed, reflecting on the diverse crowd that has quickly embraced the restaurant.
A Unique Flavor Profile of Filipino Cuisine
For those unfamiliar with Filipino food, Reyes describes it as flavorful and complex. “It is acidic, funky, salty—it’s everything. For me, it’s like the type of food you keep eating but never get tired of,” she explains.
Reyes, who grew up in Detroit and spent her early years in Bacolod, Philippines, feels a deep connection to the dishes she prepares. Her culinary journey was shaped by learning from family members, particularly her “titos and titas,” who taught her to cook by feel, using instinct rather than recipes.
Chef Reyes’ Story: From Family Gatherings to the Kitchen
Reyes fondly remembers her childhood Christmas traditions in the Philippines, where family would gather for “Simbang Gabi” (midnight mass) and celebrate with a traditional meal known as “noche Buena,” which includes a large feast with roasted pig and various sides. The meal would be served Kamayan-style, where everyone eats together using their hands.
Her love for cooking grew from her family’s gatherings, which often centered around food. Reyes credits her mom’s hard work and determination as inspiration for pursuing a career in the culinary world. “One of the main reasons I went to culinary school was because my mom was a single nurse. She worked really hard for us kids,” Reyes says.
A Culinary Journey with Chef Carlo Lamagna
After culinary school, Reyes honed her skills in various positions, including at the Country Club of Detroit. It was here that she met Chef Carlo Lamagna, a James Beard Award nominee and founder of Magna Kainan’s original Portland location. Lamagna recognized Reyes’ potential and introduced her to the Magna family, changing her life and career trajectory.
Reyes now plays a key role in Magna Kainan’s success, blending traditional Filipino dishes with modern influences. The menu features favorites like pancit, lumpia, and lechon, along with personal dishes from Reyes’ family history, such as the grilled chicken inasal.
A Sense of Family and Heritage at Magna Kainan
Magna Kainan’s large communal table reflects the restaurant’s emphasis on family and togetherness. Reyes hopes that the restaurant provides a sense of family for all its guests, especially for the Filipino community in Colorado.
“I was shown that you can elevate Filipino cuisine, and it was immediately, I want that,” Reyes says, echoing her passion for bringing Filipino flavors to a new audience.
With dishes that reflect both her heritage and Chef Lamagna’s culinary roots, Magna Kainan is offering a fresh, exciting take on Filipino dining in Denver.
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