Chef Javier Fernandez was born on the island of Cebu, Philippines. In 1991, he migrated to the United States and grew up in the DC area. After graduating from L'Academie de Cuisine and working in multiple restaurants, he recognized the need for culinary diversity in his home state. His passion is Filipino food and his goal is to influence your palate though the celebration of real Pinoy food and flavors. Cebu is famous for having the best lechon in the world. After watching Anthony Bourdain visit Cebu and declaring their lechon the "best pig ever," Javier decided to travel back home to refine his techniques and create his very own boneless lechon belly masterpiece. He takes immense pleasure in preparing every single belly as if he were serving it for his family.
Awards & Accolades
- #10 on the Washington Post Fall Dining Guide by Tom Sietsema - 2018
- Eater DC - Best New Restaurants - 2018
- Washingtonian Magazine - Best Things to Eat around DC - 2018
- Bethesda Magazine - Best of Bethesda Editors' Pick - 2019
- Washingtonian Cheap Eats - 2019
- James Beard House - Regional Spotlight Best of DC - 2019
- RAMMY Awards Finalist for Rising Culinary Star of the Year - 2019
- Washingonian Best of Washington - 2019
- Eater DC - Where DC Food Writers loved to Eat in 2019 - 2019
- Bethesda Magazine - Best of Bethesda - 2020
- RAMMY Awards Finalist for Favorite Fast Bites - 2020
- Washington Post Fall Dining Guide by Tom Sietsema - 2020
- Eater DC's 38 Standout Dining Destinations - 2020
- Washington Post - Tom Sietsema's 9 Favorite places to Eat in January and February - 2020
- Washingtonian Readers' Favorite Restaurants - Best in Maryland - 2020
- Eater DC's 38 Standout Dining Destinations -2021
- Bethesda Magazine - Best of Bethesda Editor's Pick - 2021
- Washingtonian Best Comforting Soups - 2022