Lola’s Filipino Diner

Lola’s Filipino Diner is a casual diner inspired by the carinderias (casual eating stalls and restaurants) found throughout the Phillipines. It’s by Ken and Al Craigie, the brothers behind Perth fried chook empire Royal’s Chicken & Burgers. For Lola’s, they returned to the spot that started it all; flipping the original Royal’s site in Vic Park into a house of Filipino soul food.

This place doesn’t just give a nod to the Craigie’s heritage; it’s also a direct link to their family story. Their lola – which means “grandmother” in Tagalog – had a carinderia in Manila right below her home. The brothers would visit on family trips to the Phillipines, and their lola’s place was their first experience of eating true Filipino food.

As you’d expect, the menu is an exercise in comfort and nostalgia. Those who remember Lola’s Grilled Chicken at Thornlie’s Spencer Village Food Court will recognise the inasal (Filipino-style grilled chicken).

But Lola’s 2.0 spreads its wings a little further than just chicken. You might also find house-made longanisa sausage with garlic rice and a fried egg; a corned beef hash; and adobo in both pork and vegan iterations. Also, spring rolls packed with a cheeseburger-style filling.

The Filipino focus carries over to the drinks. There’s halo halo, a shaved ice drink flavoured with jelly that drinkers mix together, and classic Pinoy soft drinks including Royal-Tru orange soda.

The space has also been given a facelift with the colour scheme shifting from black to blue. Bamboo features have been introduced, and a colourful mural by artist Jason Green adorns the main wall.