Tsismis: Filipino Done Right
Tsismis is a Lower East Side bistro that is easily on its way to becoming the area’s new hotspot. Located on 143 Orchard St between Delancy and Rivington, this cozy bistro specializes in authentic Filipino cuisine.
At the helm in the kitchen is Filipino-born chef Jappy Afzelius, who has worked in French fine-dining under famed chefs Alain Ducasse and David Burke, as well as traveled the world cooking one-of-a-kind dishes.
When it comes to appetizers, the Kale Liang (local kale sauteed with shrimp paste and coconut milk) is a must-try. The Pinsit Frito (Fried Pork Dumpling), Babylou’s Lumpia (Fried Spring Roll with Vegetables) and Pimentos (Grilled Bell Peppers with Chorizo) are definitely notable appetizer options. I also recommend trying Jappy’s Wings, which are complemented with Tsismis’s hot sauce.
When it comes to main courses (or Platos), I recommend the Adobong Manok; an amazing roasted chicken in a turmeric soy sauce with smoked eggplant, or the Printong Isda, which is a fried milkfish belly with chayote and quinoa.
Be sure to enjoy one of beverage manager Philippe Segura’s sake-based cocktails while you enjoy the artwork ladened walls of this quaint eatery. The A La Bira, Baguio Passage and Dama de Noche are all solid choices.
Tsismis is open Sunday through Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight. tsismisnyc.com
