Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly

    4.4 (958 reviews)
    ModerateFilipino
    Closed Closed

    Order Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly Takeout or Delivery

    Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly Photos

    KUYA JA'S LECHON BELLY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Trendy
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids

    You might also consider

    More like Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly

    Recommended Reviews - Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Been waiting for this lechon goodness all weekend! Yassss!
    Roma S.

    Service is always stellar at Kuya Ja's but to say I was severely disappointed with the combo lechon platter would be an understatement. I just was so sad that I couldn't get the same delight as other reviewers have had on their main dish. It was just so blah. No oomph and not enough flavor. Even the sarsa sauce could not rescue it. The crunchy skin was not glass like, it had no crunch and the meat was lacking that umami taste and just plain boring porky. And don't even let me try to describe the garlic fried rice!!!! No garlic flavor at all. There were no crunchy garlic fried bits that is ubiquitous to the national Filipino fried rice. What happened???? The lumpia was also just ok. I'm not sure what is going on? Where is the bold outstanding flavor that is endemic to epic Filipino dishes? Why did it taste so watered down? . I'm not the only one who felt this way either. My dining companions felt exactly the same way since we all ordered the same dish because we were all looking forward to having it. I also ordered the hopia baboy and it was very very dry. It tasted like cardboard. The two things that we like were the empanada and the puto kucinta.

    French Fries
    Chris D.

    THIS PLACE IS SO FREAKING GOOD. To be honest, I'm not a big pork fan, but I saw an article in Bethesda magazine and wanted to try their Lechon Belly sandwich. Just faaaaannnnnttttasssiiiicccc. I'm big on bread and it was so soft. It was served on a toasted roll along with big pieces of pork with a skin that was so crispy and crackling to complement the juicy meat. The portions were huge, which surprised me. Everything is such small portions these days but it was worth the cost. You have a choice between fries and chips. The chips were not home made so I opted for the fries. They also gave me a side of sauce, which almost tasted like Big Mac sauce? The arugula also adds on to the taste. My biggest regret was not getting two! A tip is you can call ahead and place your order. If you're in a rush, just call ahead. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It looked like a nice sit down establishment as well.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Sylvie C.

    I could have sworn I wrote a review for Kuya Ja's years ago but apparently I haven't! I was happy to discover they have better hours now. It used to open and close at in weird intervals so this was nice to find out. I stopped by on a rainy Sunday lunchtime. Parking was easy to find right in front of the store. Orders can be placed online or in-person at the counter. I highly recommend placing the orders ahead of time because of the wait. I saw a few people go up to the counter wondering about the order status as it was taking awhile. The store also carries several of Gwenie's pastries and dessert items. Fresh cream filled donuts available along with cakes and pies just to name a few. I got the lechon kawali over garlic fried rice and my friend ordered pork belly sisig combination. Every bite was flavorful and tasty. I just wish it had better portions. My bowl had small bite size pieces of what looked like half a strip of pork belly. The cost /portion ratio was just not the best. I still wouldn't mind returning and trying out other menu items. Like the KJ's chopped salad for example.

    Bustling on Sunday (brunch time)
    Tim H.

    Don't remember coming here many years ago until I pulled up my Yelp pictures. Lol. Small carry out with lots flavors. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Lunch time got busy quickly.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Crispy pork belly skin with garlic and tangy sauce. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Add some palm trees and sound of ocean and waves and you'd think you're in the Philippines or Hawaii[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Lechon Kawali
    Min Z.

    It's a popular Philippines restaurant. My friend highly recommended it to me, I came several times, but unfortunately it closes on Mondays and Tuesdays. So I came on weekend as soon as it opened. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There were only a few tables for diners.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] There were shelves of food and goods available to buy. Being a first timer, I had trouble to order the blackboard menu was on top of the counter, but I don't think everything was on the menu. I saw people carrying milkshakes but I couldn't find any on the menu. I ordered staff favorites Lechon kawali bowl. It came with garlic rice, sweet longanisa, a fried egg, and the signature Crispy port belly. It was good, but the garlic rice needed more flavor, because only a little sweet longanisa was added, I had to ask for extra sauce to finish the meal. Although friends vouched for the delicious food, but I found pork belly was just ok. And overall needs a bit more flavor. I also had Une custard cake which was too sweet for me. I would definitely come back to try more dishes!

    Inside
    Debbie O.

    If you're in Rockville, you have to hit up Kuya Ja's. Just a heads-up: pork is the star of the show here, so it's definitely a pork-lover's paradise! That said, they do their best to accompany so if you do have dietary restrictions, please let the know before you order. The food is next-level. The pancit and fried rice are massive, and honestly, their burgers and chicken sandwiches are some of the best around. Also, don't sleep on the fries, they're perfectly seasoned and super crispy. Just pair it with an ube milkshake or soft serve. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The vibe is low-key and high-energy. It's a small space with counter service, so you'll want to grab a spot quickly and clean up after yourself to keep the good vibes going for the next person.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Best part? They sell Gwenie's Pastries right there. Snagging some Ube treats on your way out is a non-negotiable. Do yourself a favor and check them out. p.s. if you like it, head over to Lapu Lapu too, same owners.

    SuJin C.

    When a serious lechon belly craving hits, you do what you have to do--even if that means driving 40 minutes. And honestly? Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly is always 100% worth the trip. This place is dangerously good if you love Filipino comfort food done right. We ordered the Lechon Belly combo with garlic rice, a fried egg, and sweet pork longanisa--every component was spot-on. The lechon belly was SUPER crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside (not much fat--YES!). The garlic rice paired perfectly, and that sweet longanisa added just the right balance. We also tried the lechon belly sandwich and the lechon sinigan--a savory, tangy soup that hit all the comforting, soul-warming notes. So good! And if you go on the weekend, do NOT skip the Bavarian cream donuts from Gwenie's pastries--WOW. These are fried doughnuts rolled in sugar and filled with creamy goodness--and they are absolutely irresistible. They offer four fillings: ube, pandan, mango, and Nutella. My favorites are ube and pandan. Decadent, indulgent, and 100% worth saving room for or taking some to go. We left and came back to get some more haha. If you are craving Filipino food--or just incredible lechon belly--Kuya Ja's is a must-visit. Just make sure you go on the weekend if you want those donuts!

    Ube Milkshake at Kuya Ja's.
    Kris P.

    Kuya Ja's in the DMV is award winning filipino cuisine for a reason. His team here at home base is friendly, funny, and truly hospitality Cebuano bar none. Lechon is a must when the craves hit and the options here will leave you satisfied and wanting more. Gwenie's desserts are abundant, check the goodies in store! Family gathering or any event, catering is available. Sige na ug, kaon ta!

    Arrt T.

    Nice fast-casual Filipino spot offering tasty fast food staples. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Service is quick and easy and the place is always lively = packed with customers whenever I visit.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Plenty enough seating if you don't mind being a bit crowded, but that gives off a nice vibe feeling like you're in a food market in the Philippines.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Get the sisig! Great texture, perfectly salty and savory. Lumpias were great but too pricey for me. Regardless, highly recommended! Oh check out their pastries from Gwenies too!

    Best Filipino restaurant in the DMV!
    Diana N.

    Kuya Ja is everyone's Kuya! I've tried the whole menu and while yes, the lechon is the star of the show, it's the other menu items that I've grown fond of. My top five has to be the Arroz Caldo, Chicken Adobo, Pancit, Empanadas, and Tamarind Wings. Give me any of those and I'll be a happy camper. Don't get me wrong I love me some crunchy lechon skin or Sisig, but the other five I mentioned I can eat everyday :) Make sure to check out Kuya Ja and order everything I mentioned!!

    Linda V.

    This place has been on my "must-try" list for a long time, and I finally got to visit today. Without a doubt, it was one of the best first experiences I've had at an establishment in a while. From the moment I walked in, the staff were warm, welcoming, and genuinely friendly, always willing to help if I had any questions. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space itself is cute and cozy with a decent amount of seating.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]However, judging by how popular it seemed with the constant foot traffic, I wouldn't be surprised if they eventually needed to expand if given the opportunity.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I also noticed a lot of large takeout orders going out, and after tasting the food, I completely understand why. Everything was amazing. I enjoyed every bite and sip especially the fried adobo wings, which were perfectly crunchy and slightly sweet on the outside while staying moist and flavorful on the inside. The garlic fried rice was also excellent, with just the right amount of garlic flavor. The menu is simple, which I appreciate, and it offers a little bit of everything. They've also partnered with a sister bakery, offering what looked like delicious cakes, donuts, and other Filipino desserts. I'll definitely be coming back because honestly, I want to try the entire menu. Overall, it was a great experience you won't regret stopping by.

    Chicken adobo- so delicious!
    Joy B.

    As I was walking in the door, a lady was looking over the menu. She said, to me, "Go ahead, it's my first time here." I said, "You can't go wrong with anything on the menu, and it may be your first time here, but it won't be your last time." : ) The is food made like a "Lola"or Philippino grandmother would make. The dishes are slow cooked and so flavorful. I love my chicken adobo. It's thick, rich stewed chicken that just falls off the bone. It is served with rice, creamy egg, and greens. I always get my lumpia. It is crispy cigar filled dough, that is filled with fresh veggies and served with a sweet dipping sauce. Service is great and you feel very welcome. They are honest about the food taking a few minutes to prepare. It is always hot and delicious. I love the bright red colors and various tables to sit and eat your meal. They have a really cool mural on one wall. It is very nice decor that honors their Philippino heritage. I highly recommend it and so does Yelp. It is on their top places to eat in the DMV area.

    Kuya Ja's
    Cecilia C.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]I didn't eat there this time but always busy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Small space but welcoming.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Love the pork lechon there. I picked up BBQ bouquet for Valentines! Very tasty. Highly recommend - all my favorites dishes there (very close to how my dad made them).

    Garlic Fried Rice

    See all

    Review Insights

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    9 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Roma S.
    114
    258
    1134

    17 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kris P.
    104
    283
    1463

    11 months ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 8
    Love this 17
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 3
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Erick M.
    358
    10
    0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mark C.
    128
    561
    8979

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Moco S.
    0
    32
    19

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alan L.
    95
    1295
    2404

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    The food is Amazing! I was very impressed and If you get a chance please give it a try!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 24

    Ask the Community - Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly

    Is there anything gluten free?

    They are really helpful with ingrediants. Pancit (noodles)gluten free. Lumpia the eggrolls gluten free. Chicken wings breaded with corn. The lechon belly lined with fat but no gluten. I'm gluten free and have been eating there since they opened.

    View All 2 Questions

    You might also consider

    Purple Patch

    Purple Patch

    4.4
    (1.6k reviews)
    8.7 mi
    $$

    Loved our dinner here! We did everything family style. The lumpia were hot, crispy, and delicious…read more I could've eaten a whole plate! I loved the spice on the crab fat lechon- wish the portion was a tad bigger tho! The fried rice, pancit, sisig, short rib, ube pancakes, and garlic rice were also fabulous. But the star for me was the fried adobo chicken. It was flavorful, crispy, and paired perfectly with the pickled veg. The pineapple ube tres leche ended the meal on a sweet note. My mistake not realizing it didn't come à la mode only downside was that the AC wasn't running well in the downstairs seating so it was quite warm. But overall, a great place to have a great meal!

    Was lucky to get to dine at Purple Patch twice this year! Reservations highly recommended. Cute…read moredining area downstairs. They make cute signs for special occasions! Cocktail: Pinoy Cold Front No. 6 (like an ube espresso martini) Apps: - lumpia (5pc, crispy & delicious) - crispy eggplant (enjoyed first time, but not as crispy second time around) Tapcilog (soy garlic beef) is my fave savory dish! Includes garlic rice & fried eggs. Not crazy about pork belly but ube pancakes & lechon kawali was good! Ube cinnamon toast: couldn't taste much ube but toast was good Ube waffle & fried chicken (+ube ice cream) - unique combo & chicken was crispy! Would dine here again whenever i return to DC.

    Photos
    Seating area
    Seating area
    Mama Alice's Lumpia
    Mama Alice's Lumpia
    Mango nectar (non alcoholic, zero proof)

    See all

    Mango nectar (non alcoholic, zero proof)
    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville

    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville

    4.3
    (1.1k reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Established in 2018

    I visited one of my favorite spots in Rockville today, Kiin Imm Thai, and it never disappoints. It…read moreisn't a huge restaurant, but our party of six was seated right away, which was a pleasant surprise. The Boat Noodle Soup hits the spot every single time. It's so comforting and filling that I always feel like I need a nap afterward! The rich, spicy broth has the perfect kick that lingers in the back of your throat, and the lemongrass flavor is incredibly satisfying. It has just the right amount of noodles and tender beef, and it's even topped with crispy fried pork skins that add the perfect crunch. If you enjoy spicy food, this is definitely a dish you need to try. The food comes out fairly quickly, so don't be surprised if your appetizer and entrée arrive around the same time. I don't mind because everything is so delicious, but it's something to keep in mind if you like to pace your meal.

    The food was good overall, and I especially enjoyed the braised pork leg with rice. The flavor was…read moredelicious, and I had no complaints about the food itself. Unfortunately, the service was very disappointing. I asked the server if she was Thai, and she nodded to indicate that she was. However, after that, her attitude was cold and unfriendly. She rarely smiled, seemed annoyed whenever we needed anything, and made us feel as though we were not welcome. The poor service took away from what could have been a pleasant dining experience. Good food is important, but customers should also be treated with warmth, courtesy, and respect. I hope the restaurant will improve its customer service.

    Photos
    Burn, Baby, Burn !!!
    Burn, Baby, Burn !!!
    Huli Huli Pork
    Huli Huli Pork
    Green Chayote

    See all

    Green Chayote

    Kuya Ja's Lechon Belly - filipino - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...