Kanin Off: Namnam versus Fely J's

The Battle of Pinoy Cuisine in Greenbelt Makati

In the first edition of Kanin Off! we take a look at two of the most prominent (and somehow reasonably-priced) Pinoy-themed restaurants in Greenbelt: Namnam and Fely J's Kitchen.

Both restaurants boast extensive menu that covers the fundamentals of Filipino cuisine - from inihaw to sisig to kare-kare to the Pinoy staple kanin.

On the Namnam table: Butterflied Fried Pla Pla with Buro and Mustasa, Crispy Pata with Garlic Chili Bits, Pinakbet, and Tinapa Rice

The best thing about Namnam is that you could control the portions. Each item on their menu comes in three serving sizes: Small (good for solo eaters), Medium (good for 3) and Large (good for 6). This setup is very beneficial for foodies because it allows them to taste as many dishes as possible without breaking their wallets.

The flavors of Namnam are spot on. There's nothing too complicated nor too fancy in their dishes, yet each bite feels like a warm embrace from your lola who cooks your favorite sinigang during the rainy days; or a kiss from your mom who whips the most stunning piniritong manok to reward you for scoring 98% in your exam.

On the Fely J's table: the free kropek (YAS!), Sinigang na Boneless Bangus in Guava Broth, Lechon Kawali, and  Sisig Fried Rice.

The Fely J's dining experience could be summed up in one word: refined. From the restaurant interiors down to the execution of the dishes in their menu, you definitely get that polished feel. The food tastes exactly how you would've remembered it from your childhood, but with a hint of sophistication. 

Fely J's might be fancy, but Namnam hits it closer to home.

NAMNAM, Level 1, Greenbelt 2, Ayala Center Makati City.

FELY J'S, Level 2, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center Makati City.