Best Wood Fired Smoked Meats Across the US

Magna Kainan

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.”