Neng Jr.’s, a chef-owned and -operated Filipinx restaurant in West Asheville, has earned another national accolade for its excellence and quality dining service. Neng’s Jr., along with 46 other restaurants, was included in the 2024 USA TODAY Restaurants of the Year list.
What makes Neng Jr.’s stand out
Executive chef/co-owner Silver Iocovozzi infuses traditional and contemporary recipes and techniques into Neng Jr.’s menu. Cuisines from the Philippines are at the root of the dishes, reflecting the chef’s heritage, family recipes and experience in the metropolis of Manila.
The restaurant pays homage to Iocovozzi’s mother, Marissa Cousler, whose nickname is Neneng. At an early age, the pair were close and resembled each other, earning Iocovozzi the name “Neng Jr.”
Iocovozzi’s upbringing in East North Carolina and culinary experience and skills gained in Western North Carolina are evident, further showcased by fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the region’s rich agricultural community of farmers and purveyors that fuse Southern influences into the menu.