Our Story

Manila Inasal began in 2020 as a heartfelt response to the pandemic, when Chef Natalia Moran and her siblings cooked from their home in San Juan for frontline workers. That small act of love grew into a beloved restaurant in Manila—then in 2023, a new chapter opened in Los Angeles.

Led by Chef Natalia and the Simon family—long-time friends and partners—the LA expansion brings together culinary artistry and cultural legacy. Elzar Dodjie Simon, a famed Filipino songwriter and music icon, helped bring the vision to life alongside his children Elisha, Joshua, and Ysabel. Together, they’ve championed Filipino flavors with passion and purpose.

From catering The Recording Academy to feeding legends like Eraserheads and Bamboo, Manila Inasal is proud to celebrate Filipino heritage through food, music, and community.

Now in Silverlake, we invite you to experience Filipino food reimagined—crafted with soul, rooted in tradition, and made to bring people together.

CHEF NATALIA MORAN – the creator of Manila Inasal

Chef Natalia Moran is a culinary force, renowned for her innovative take on Filipino cuisine. As the mastermind behind over 20 acclaimed restaurants, including The Sunny Side Café, Spice Bird, and Granivore, she blends tradition with creativity. With Manila Inasal, Chef Natalia adds her unique twist to Filipino classics, earning her a reputation as one of the most influential chefs in the industry.