2 restaurants serving Scallops
Washington, DC
“KAYU represents modern Filipino fine dining in Washington DC, led by acclaimed Chef Paolo Dungca who earned a James Beard nomination in 2024. The restaurant name derives from 'kayumanggi'-Filipino for 'brown,' describing the sun-kissed skin of Filipino people-celebrating Filipino heritage through innovative cuisine. After originally opening on H Street NE with upstairs fine dining (Kayu) and downstairs caf (Hiraya), the restaurant relocated to Dupont Circle in August 2025 with a more accessible, streamlined concept focused on la carte dining rather than tasting menus. Chef Dungca, originally from San Fernando (Philippines' culinary capital) and Manila, trained at notable DC establishments including Bad Saint, Kaliwa, and Restaurant Eve before launching his vision for modern Filipino cuisine. His cooking philosophy embraces seasonal produce, vegetarian options, and gluten-free dishes while maintaining Filipino soul, sourcing locally and fusing traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. The bright 40-seat Dupont location features family-style plates designed for multiple weekly visits rather than just special occasions, with signature dishes including the famous cassava cake topped with crab fat, jamn Ibrico, and trout roe; purple ube bao bun sliders with chorizo; and ribeye with burnt coconut sauce infused with lemongrass and galangal-southern Filipino flavors rarely seen in US Filipino restaurants. Other standout offerings include tocino chicken with sweet soy-garlic-annatto-pineapple glaze, sweet corn agnolotti with curry emulsion, and inventive desserts like burnt cassava cheesecake. The beverage program features Filipino-influenced cocktails including pandan negroni and tamarind-jackfruit margarita alongside Filipino beers and curated wines. KAYU represents the new generation of Filipino restaurants elevating the cuisine beyond traditional expectations while maintaining authentic flavors and warm hospitality.”
Denver, CO
“Magna Kainan opened in November 2024 in Denver's RiNo district as the highly anticipated sister restaurant to Portland's acclaimed Magna Kusina, both created by James Beard finalist and Food & Wine Best New Chef Carlo Lamagna. Located at 1350 40th Street in the Novel RiNo building, this refined, wood-fired Filipino restaurant represents a decade-long dream for Lamagna, who partnered with Denver's Culinary Creative Group to bring his modern Filipino vision to Colorado. The restaurant's name combines "Magna" (Lamagna's nickname) with "Kainan" (Tagalog for eatery), offering contemporary takes on Filipino classics through Lamagna's lens of French technique and Filipino soul. Born in the Philippines and raised between Detroit and Manila, Lamagna honors his late father's wish to share Filipino culture with the world through food that's both visually stunning and deeply rooted in tradition. The chic 3,000-square-foot space features communal seating, warm lighting, and Filipino flag proudly displayed, creating an atmosphere that emphasizes the communal aspects of Filipino dining. Magna Kainan offers specialty experiences including in-house Lechon Pig Roast celebrations for groups, complete with champagne toasts and full feast spreads.”
