This cookbook felt like a love letter to Filipino food, but with a fresh and personal spin. Woldy Reyes takes the comforting, familiar flavors of traditional dishes and gives them a lighter, more veggie-forward approach without losing what makes them special. As someone who loves exploring different cuisines, I appreciated how approachable and beautifully crafted these recipes are.

The seasonal structure is a nice touch—it encourages cooking with fresh ingredients while still staying true to Filipino flavors. Some standout recipes for me were the Kabocha Squash Lumpia and Adobo Green Beans—both simple but packed with flavor.

Beyond the food, Reyes’ personal stories make this book feel warm and inviting. His experience as a first-generation Filipino American really shines through, making the book feel like more than just a collection of recipes—it’s about identity, connection, and evolving traditions. Plus, the book itself is gorgeous, with vibrant photography and an artful layout that makes you want to cook everything.

Whether you grew up eating Filipino food or are completely new to it, In the Kusina is an inspiring and joyful cookbook that I can see myself reaching for again and again.

Overall, I find this cookbook intriguing, with easily sourced ingredients, flavor combinations I haven't yet tried, and plenty of vegetarian options (if I omit the fish sauce). There are far more baking recipes than I had anticipated, which is a plus.

This will be a fun and unique cookbook for experienced home cooks to try out. I love the author's exuberance, and enjoyed seeing his happy smile throughout this, his debut cookbook.

Wow! This is one of the best cookbooks I’ve read this year. A must have for anyone in Filipino cooking, I love the chapter on sauces and condiments. The recipes are organized by seasons and they are vegetable forward and delightful. I can’t wait to try the deserts. Also, the pictures are beautiful.

The pictures and the food all look so good! The stories were also a great read. One thing that felt strange was that some recipes had words in the steps that I didn't think fit properly. I'm not sure if someone else edited or ghost-wrote a few, but something did feel off.

In the Kusina focuses on modern more plant forward Filipino dishes.

The Sections are
Introduction
Sauces, Condiments, Pickles, and Pantry Items
Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Each recipe has recipe blurb, how much it makes, ingredients, and directions. The recipes in this cookbook have easy to follow straightforward recipes. I am very excited to try these recipes as they all look so mouthwatering. The photographs are stunning.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

In the Kusina My Seasonal Filipino Cooking offers authentic recipes and lovely photos to make you want to dive right into this cookbook. Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for a ARC to review!

Woldy Reyes is lucky he’s good looking. He (or his ghostwriter) can’t sell a recipe— which is truly unfortunate, considering that the recipes in this book actually look appetizing. In the introduction, Reyes dashes toward an interesting point about him growing up Filipino, queer, big, and disabled— then dashes away into the safety of a smelly lunchbox story. He never really explains the multiple lumpia recipes. He calls Edy’s Grocery a bodega at one point.

There’s little to no context or knowledge of Filipino food presented. For example, Reyes presents his introduction of ingredients from other countries as new to Filipino cuisine, when Filipino food has always has ingredients from other countries due to its status as a colony and trading post. There is no scaffolding for the inclusion of multiple lumpia recipes, and though I’m not an authority I find the inclusion of miso in sinigang deeply questionable.

Overall, Reyes narration lacks confidence, and the lack of confidence makes him an easy target for disdain from the reader. With the career he’s had, I doubt Woldy Reyes is as insufferable as how he’s managed to present himself in this book.

Delightful new recipes, many of which were unfamiliar to me. Presentation and photography, with images accompanying each recipe.

In the Kusina by Woldy Reyes will be published April 8, 2025.

As a Filipino, I was most excited to request this book as a lover of Filipino cuisine. I moved away from home about 7 years ago and have yet to master any of my favorite dishes only because everything I've purchased from local restaurants could never quite match up to my mom's home cooked meals. I am on a new health journey and hope to learn to make my favorite dishes as well as learn new recipes. When my mom has taught me recipes, she would say "a little bit of this" and "a pinch of that" when describing how much ingredients to add each dish. As someone who needs more detailed instruction (but still open to adjusting as needed), this book is just what I needed! Precise instructions and exact measurements.

The photos in this book are absolutely stunning and bring such a nostalgic feel when flipping through the pages. I can't wait to refer to this book the next time I need a new sasawan (sauce) for my meals, craving specific dish during the spring holiday, or missing a bit of home on a summer day.

I received a copy from the author/publishing company via NetGalley in exchanged for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I love to cook, but I get in phases, where I cook the same thing over and over again until I literally never want to look at the dish/food again and it becomes repulsive lol. So I am always looking for new dishes and inspiration. I absolutely adored the recipes in this book! They were super easy to follow and felt so fresh and delightful! Since I’m a big fan of seasonal cooking, I couldn’t help but fall in love with this charming style.
I will now be a coconut milk convert and will forever reference this book!
The coconut green goddess dressing is what dreams are made of ps

This is a wonderfully executed cookbook that really allows Filipino flavours to shine through, incorporating them into non-traditional ways and making the dishes vegetable-forward. You can tell the love and intention that went into this book! I would highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to expand their culinary repertoire and learn more about Filipino ingredients and how you can incorporate them into your go-to meals.

Thank you to NetGalley, Chronicle Books and Woldy Reyes for giving me an ARC of this lovely cookbook!

As a Filipino-American, I was so pleased to see all the Tagalog in this cookbook—it gave me such a sense of connection to my roots. I’ll admit, I don’t cook a lot of Filipino food, but this book definitely piqued my interest. I’ve never read a cookbook from start to finish before; I usually just skim through for recipes that catch my eye. But this one was different. I really enjoyed reading the introduction and the guiding principles—it felt personal and inspiring.

What stood out to me was how Woldy fused Filipino flavors with plant-based cooking. As someone trying to eat more vegetables, this was a big draw for me. Filipino food isn’t always known for its veggie-forward options, so seeing healthier takes on traditional dishes felt fresh and exciting. The seasonal structure of the book was another highlight. Woldy explains the importance of cooking with fruits and vegetables in season, and it’s made me more mindful of what I pick up at the store. Seasonal produce really does taste better!

There were recipes in here that felt a little intimidating for someone who doesn’t cook often, but there were plenty of approachable options too—ones I’m genuinely excited to try. I even found myself telling my mom about dishes her friends cook that we’ve never made at home. Now, I’m inspired to try them myself!

One thing I loved was how Woldy wove his personality into the book. He seems like such a fun and creative person, and that energy comes through in every page. The pictures make everything look so delicious, and the step-by-step photos (like for making lumpia) are perfect for beginners.

I also appreciated the unique fusions in the book, whether it was healthier spins on Filipino staples or dishes influenced by Woldy’s friends and travels. Even as someone who wasn’t a fan of certain Filipino staples growing up (raisins in dishes or bitter melon, anyone?), I could see how thoughtfully these elements were incorporated.

Overall, this cookbook made me so hungry while reading, but in the best way! It’s one I’d love to own when it comes out and even gift to others. Woldy’s creativity, love for food, and fresh take on Filipino cuisine really shine through. It’s a fantastic book for anyone looking to explore Filipino flavors in a new way.

This beautiful book will leave you wondering what to make first. The myriad of recipes organized by seasons are clearly explained and complimented by photos by Fujio Emura.
Woldy’s accessible recipes and warm voice make it clear that Filipino food is truly a love of his.
For those wishing to incorporate more vegetables into their diet or learn about this delicious cuisine, this book is one to pick up. If you wish to start slow, I highly recommend spending time in the extensive section including, sauces, dressings, gremolata and other tasty additions to your meal.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

In the Kusina by Woldy Reyes is a delightful culinary journey through the rich and flavorful world of Filipino cuisine. From the moment you open the book, you're greeted with stunning photographs and mouth-watering recipes that transport you to a bustling Filipino kitchen.

What sets this cookbook apart is Reyes' unique approach to traditional dishes, infusing them with a fresh and modern twist while still honoring their cultural roots. Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted, with clear instructions that make it easy for both novice and experienced cooks to recreate these delicious meals in their own kitchens.

One of the most striking aspects of In the Kusina is Reyes' commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The emphasis on seasonality ensures that each dish is bursting with flavor, showcasing the best of what nature has to offer. In addition to the incredible recipes, Reyes also shares personal anecdotes and stories that provide context and history for each dish, making the book feel like a warm and inviting conversation with a friend.

In the Kusina is a true celebration of Filipino cuisine, and Woldy Reyes has done an exceptional job of sharing his passion and knowledge with readers. This cookbook is a great addition for anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse flavors of the Philippines or simply looking to expand their culinary horizons.

In the Kusina is a novel take on traditional Filipino foods in that many of the recipes are more plant centered while traditional Filipino food tends to be more meat based. I really enjoyed the plant forward twist to these recipes and enjoyed the recipes I tried. Some ingredients require a trip to the local Asian market, but that’s nothing out of the ordinary for a cookbook if a specific type of ethnic cuisine. I look forward to this coming out in stores and plan to add it to my collection.

Thank you to the publisher and net galley for this free advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

In the Kusina is a cookbook of Filipino-American recipes. It's an interesting compilation of recipes from all categories.

Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for an ARC of this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I will admit that I have very little experience with Filipino cooking. It's not easily found in my area of rural Oklahoma.

I'm very excited to be able to learn to cook it for myself, and also have even more vegetarian dishes to add to our meals.

The recipes are very easy to follow, and I also deeply appreciate seeing photos of the ingredients packaging so I know what to get the next time I visit my favorite Asian market. It can be very confusing when you are inexperienced with cooking a new to you cuisine with imported ingredients that might not be in English.


Unfortunately some ingredients are going to be hard to find if you don't have an Asian Market, or other store that caries a lot of Asian ingredients and vegetables. Thankfully most of the shelf stable ingredients can be purchased online, but they will be much more expensive.

I can't wait to start working my way through cooking the recipes in this book, and the flavors look so bright and refreshing. I think there will be quite a few recipes that will become part of my regular meal rotation!

I loved this cookbook, it was nothing like what I expected. In the Kusina is not simply a collection of recipes. It felt like the author personally invited me to some of the events pictured and described throughout the book. I love the plant based focus in each page, and while the recipe is written that way, Woldy still gives the reader some background information on what would traditionally be in that dish, in the event that you may want to add in animal proteins as well. I appreciate the organization of this cookbook, because too often do I read a recipe that may call for daikon at a time of year where my local grocery store only has radishes. That stylistic choice makes sense given that plant based ingredients are the stars of each dish compiled in the book. If I had to critique something I would say that the ending felt abrupt. I need something to tie it all together. Overall, the years put into this work are well reflected.

What a beautiful book! As an avid collector of Filipino cookbooks, it is truly refreshing to see a cookbook that has a different take on traditional Filipino cuisine. The vegetable centered ulams are very clever. It is a cookbook that offers an alternative to the meat/fish centered Filipino food, without losing the essence and spirit of the cuisine but at the same time modernizing dishes so that Filipino food can be appreciated by a wider audience.

I absolutely love the different variations of Bibingka! I'm looking forward to try all of them! I can't wait to try the Lumpia series and Laing recipe!

I'd absolutely buy this book once it comes out!

"In the Kusina: My Seasonal Filipino Cooking" by Woldy Reyes is a vibrant celebration of Filipino cuisine reimagined for a modern audience. Featuring over 100 recipes, this cookbook seamlessly blends fresh, seasonal ingredients with traditional flavors, offering a unique, veggie-forward approach to Filipino classics. The stunning photography—both of the food and the people—beautifully captures the joy of cooking and sharing these dishes.

What sets this book apart is its blend of storytelling and recipes. Woldy’s personal anecdotes offer a heartfelt glimpse into his heritage and the role food plays in building connections. From Garlic Furikake Rice to Kabocha Squash Lumpia, the recipes are both creative and approachable, making it a must-have for food lovers and curious home cooks.

Whether you’re exploring Filipino food for the first time or seeking a fresh take on beloved flavors, this book is a delightful addition to your kitchen. Highly recommended—4.5 stars!

Disclosure: Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for providing me with a copy for review consideration. All opinions are my own.