Kamayan ATL - Filipino Restaurant

Kamayan ATL has transformed from beloved pop-up to one of Atlanta's most celebrated Filipino restaurants since 2018, earning Michelin Guide recognition and expansion plans that reflect its serious fanbase. Founded by owners Mia Orino and Carlo Gan who yearned to share Filipino food the way their nanay (mother) made it, Kamayan operates on Buford Highway's Asian Square with tropical island decor and tight but homey table arrangements that create bustling, authentic atmosphere. The name 'kamayan'-Tagalog for 'by hand'-references the traditional Filipino communal dining style, and the restaurant offers both traditional boodle fight feasts (which must be pre-booked) and individual family-style ordering. Reservations are essential as crowds signal arrival at this James Beard-recognized establishment. The menu balances Filipino classics with regional specialties, featuring perfectly prepared sinigang with tender pork ribs in tamarind broth, crispy lumpia always a hit, impressive kare-kare with beef and essential bagoong side, sizzling sisig, lechon kawali, and spectacular whole fried pompano. Kamayan's efficiency from pop-up days translates to restaurant operations pumping out delicious food quickly while maintaining quality. The restaurant partners with local Filipino bakery Hapag for desserts including halo-halo with spectacular toppings. With plans for expansion including beer and wine license and additional space for supporting other pop-ups, Kamayan ATL represents Filipino cuisine's growing prominence in Atlanta's diverse food scene.