Asheville Celebrates Culinary Excellence: Chef Silver Iocovozzi Shines Bright
Asheville, N.C. has been buzzing with excitement recently as one of its own has earned a prestigious accolade in the culinary world. Chef Silver Iocovozzi, the mastermind behind the vibrant eatery Neng Jr.’s, has been honored as one of the newest Best New Chefs by a well-known food magazine. This recognition is a testament to not just his talent but also the incredible fusion of diverse culinary traditions that he brings to the table.
A Fusion of Cultures
Chef Silver’s journey is a beautiful blend of heritage and culinary passion. As a second-generation Filipino American raised in the Carolinas, he has taken it upon himself to create a unique dining experience that marries Filipino and Southern food traditions. His restaurant, Neng Jr.’s, is described as a space where exuberant, high-touch, queercore dining thrives, offering diners a menu that is as colorful as it is flavorful.
The interior of Neng Jr.’s is just as captivating as the food. The intimate setting features an open kitchen adorned with green-tiled walls and a stunning portrait of Silver’s mother, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that echoes the love and creativity poured into each dish.
A Note from Food & Wine
According to Food & Wine, this year’s cohort of Best New Chefs is the largest ever, signifying the future of American cooking. These chefs are not only innovators in the kitchen but also champions of sustainable practices and inclusivity within their workplaces. It’s a wave of change, and Silver Iocovozzi is at the forefront with his commitment to crafting delicious, innovative food while fostering a welcoming environment.
Must-Try Menu Items
Curious about what to try at Neng Jr.’s? The menu is filled with delightful surprises! One of the standout offerings is the fruit plate, made with seasonal fruits drizzled with a custom sauce. This sauce, inspired by a Filipino staple featuring green mango and bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), has flavors that are both sour and salty, making it a refreshing start to any meal. “It’s just super sour and salty and so satiating,” Silver describes enthusiastically.
Another star dish is the adobo oyster. This unique dish combines a cured quail egg yolk with an adobo mignonette, presenting a perfect balance of flavors that captivates diners. “Things like onion and pepper and acid and salt are huge, really basic, groundwork flavors for Filipino food,” Silver explains. He emphasizes that this dish is a staple at Neng Jr.’s and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
If you’re in search of something hearty, the duck adobo is an excellent choice. This dish features a rich sauce crafted from fresh herbs, soy sauce, vinegar, and coconut milk. Silver meticulously steeps toasted black peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaves overnight, resulting in a thick, silky sauce that enhances the duck beautifully. “It’s just super well balanced,” he says proudly.
A Series of Accolades
The recognition of Neng Jr.’s as one of the Best New Restaurants by various renowned food publications, including a spot on a coveted list by a major food magazine, speaks volumes about Silver and his team’s hard work. In 2023, the restaurant even became a finalist for a prestigious dining award, further solidifying its place in the culinary landscape.
As Asheville continues to grow as a culinary hotspot, Chef Silver Iocovozzi’s Neng Jr.’s remains a must-visit destination for anyone eager to experience a delightful fusion of Filipino and Southern cuisine served with a side of joy and flair!
