Neva’s Place Restaurant on Palawan – Some Very Sad News
by Donna Amis Davis
Neva’s Place Restaurant, in Puerto Princesa was one of our very favorite places to eat on Palawan. Sadly, I have to say ‘was’. Around midnight, Saturday night, August 18th, or very early Sunday morning August 19th, Neva’s Restaurant was destroyed in a fire. So very sad. We heard that the fire was most likely caused by an electrical wiring problem. Unfortunately, Neva’s was completely destroyed. Nothing was able to be saved. I’m thinking especially of the oil paintings that graced the walls, painted by Jane Timbancaya-Urbanek’s son, and the piano that Bill enjoyed playing. Because Neva’s Place was made of all natural materials – wood and bamboo – it burned quickly. The Timbancaya family home that sits right in front of the restaurant was gutted as well. We are so sorry for the huge loss of these two Puerto Princesa landmarks.
I can’t tell you how many times we’ve eaten at Neva’s, or how many visitors to Palawan we’ve introduced Neva’s Place to. Many, many times, that is for sure.
I will leave this blog post below as-is on-line, so anyone who wants to can see pictures of the Neva’s Place that was. Again, we’d like to express our condolences in the loss of these two places.
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Today I’d like to introduce you to one of our favorite little restaurants in Puerto Princesa, Neva’s Place. It’s a bit off the beaten-path, tucked back on a side street in the old part of town, near the cathedral. It’s been around for many years, with a loyal clientele, but takes a little searching to find the first time. The search is worth the effort.
The indefatigable Jane Timbancaya-Urbanek, artist, author, community activist and business woman, opened Neva’s Place using recipes developed by one son, showcasing art by another son, and naming it after her lovely daughter, Neva, who oversees the daily operations.
There is much to like about Neva’s. First, it is set back in a garden, in the old Timbancaya family home. Greenery abounds and fresh flowers grace the tables. Then, Neva’s Place is also an art gallery, showcasing works by Jane’s son, herself and others. And last but not least, the food is great. The menu is varied and prices are low. Wood-fired pizza, curries, pastas, Filipino favorites and international dishes are on the menu. Neva’s is famous for their roast chicken, made with a special blend of spices giving extra flavor to the gravy served alongside.
We love the lemon grass chicken, red curry pasta, buttered veggies, and fish au poivre.
Vegetarians can find several options here. Choices include vegetarian pizza, margherita pizza, cheese and garlic pizza, as well as some vegetable dishes.
Upstairs all is native style, with wood and bamboo.
Bill has been known to play the piano downstairs on occasion. Oh, I almost forgot to mention, one other reason we love Neva’s – they play really nice mellow jazz over their sound system, which enhances the relaxing, sophisticated vibe.
Neva’s Place is located on Taft Street, which runs parallel to Rizal Avenue. It is between Roxas Avenue (now named Manalo Avenue – though locals still call it Roxas) and Sandoval. The address is 48 Taft Avenue.
Good to know: Neva’s delivers, and you can also make take-out orders. Phone number: 433-2575.
https://www.donnaamisdavis.com/nevas-place-restaurant-on-palawan-wood-fired-pizza-and-more/Puerto Princesa & PalawanRestaurants & Foodcurry,Donna Amis Davis,lemon grass,margherita pizza,Palawan,Philippines,puerto princesa,vegetarian food,vegetarian pizza,wood-fired pizzaby Donna Amis Davis Neva's Place Restaurant, in Puerto Princesa was one of our very favorite places to eat on Palawan. Sadly, I have to say 'was'. Around midnight, Saturday night, August 18th, or very early Sunday morning August 19th, Neva's Restaurant was destroyed in a fire. So very sad....Donna Amis DavisDonna Amis Davis[email protected]AdministratorDonna Amis Davis
Lovely, makes me hungry!
Oh, I know, Melinda. We were there for lunch today, and ate too much, because we wanted to take pictures of the food! The other food pictures didn’t turn out very well, though, so I just used one.
Thanks for coming by!
This place looks like it has a wonderful feeling. The art, the food, the space and I especially love the flower bowl. You did a great job of conveying this.
Thank you for your kind words, Karen. It is a very homey place, if your home is native and artsy and surrounded by a garden, with a great cook always working in the kitchen. Don’t we wish!
I visited recently. I ordered the vegetarian pizza which I enjoyed . what I did not enjoy was the hour and a half wait. Twice I asked is this the usual waiting time but no one gave me an answer. I am very patient and very friendly so I dont feel I inimidated them in any way.
Oh, that’s too bad! We usually get quick service – that’s one of the things we enjoy about Neva’s.
Sooooo, let’s ask an expert of Palawan where to stay/go and what to do if you’ve got the energy when in Puerta Princessa. The first visit was not that great. Ready to find the famous magic. Couple/few expats who want to know. Thanks very much. (Did not see or her about Neva’s when we were there, Oct of 2012, or was it 13?)
Whoops, re-read and see the great-sounding resto had its tragic event Feb of 2012. Sorry. Anyway, still want to hear your take on Palawan for us ex-pat visitors. Maraming salamat.