Get ready, Memphis! Your tastebuds are about to explode. Shayne Diaz is bringing Filipino food to the South Main Arts District in Downtown Memphis with her new restaurant KUYA. Set to open Friday, March 6th, this spot will have mouthwatering small plates and delicious cocktails.
Choose901 sat down with Shayne for an exclusive interview. Keep reading to learn KUYA’s story.
Where it all began
What started as a Filipino snack food popup in 2025 quickly became a restaurant concept. In September of 2025, KUYA held their first popup at Good Fortune. Since then, they’ve had popups all over town with lumpia (Filipino egg rolls), chicken skewers, and frozen cocktails in flavors like pandan and ube.
“Kuya” means older brother in Tagalog. Their website states:
"Your kuya can be your neighbor, your friend, or even a stranger. There’s a specific essence found in Filipino culture that we believe should be more prevalent in all parts of the world — that everyone can be considered both family and friend."
This word holds a lot of meaning for Shayne because her late father always wanted to open a restaurant, and she’s making his dream a reality.
What you can expect
When Choose901 asked Shayne what people can expect when they come to KUYA, she said:
"Expect fun, fun, fun."
Without giving too many menu spoilers 👀, there will be lumpia, skewers, adobo, halo halo, Pan-Asian inspired cocktails, and more.
Shayne wants the vibe to be chill and casual—a space for you and your friends to grab some good food and drinks, catch up, and listen to DJs spin the 1s and 2s.
When you walk in, you’ll see an extravagant mural made by the South’s own Birdcap, incorporating bright colors and the restaurant’s name throughout.
Why Memphis?
Shayne wanted to bring this style of Filipino snack foods, small plates, and cocktails to the Memphis food scene because there’s not much Filipino food in the 901 tbh.
As an immigrant from the Philippines, Shayne touched down in the US in West Memphis, Arkansas. When she turned 18, she crossed the Mississippi River and has called Memphis home ever since.
Not only will KUYA bring diverse cuisine to the 901 but it’s also a woman-owned, immigrant-owned spot in one of the most poppin’ districts in the city!
Where is KUYA?
📍327 S. Main St. Memphis, TN 38103 (former Bedrock Eats & Sweets space by the Green Beetle)
Hours
Follow @kuya.mem on social media for all the updates you need to know!
