"This year, tons of pandemic-era pop-ups made the transition into full brick-and-mortars. Our favorite of the bunch is Kuya Lord. The creative Filipino comfort food here is every bit as spectacular as it was at the former Bestia chef's pop-up in 2020. Only now you get to hang out while you eat. The Melrose Hill cafe keeps things fast-casual, but it’s much more than a spot to pick up a chicken rice bowl in between meetings. If it’s your first visit, go for a Kuya Tray, which comes with big portions of sticky java rice, stir-fried pancit, pickled vegetables, and a protein of your choice (the sweet pork sausage is a must). And make sure to return for some of the elaborate specials that are only served at dinner, too. " - brant cox, nikko duren, sylvio martins, garrett snyder
