Lolo and Lola

Lolo and Lola brings the vibrant, comforting flavours of the Philippines to the heart of Australia's capital. Located at Shop 2, 3 Watson Place in Watson, ACT, this family-run Filipino eatery is more than just a place to grab a meal — it's a heartfelt tribute to the grandmothers and grandfathers (Lolos and Lolas) who safeguard the nation's beloved culinary traditions. The restaurant has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite, earning a strong 4.7-star rating on Google Maps from over 1,100 reviews, a testament to its dedication to honest, fresh, and deeply satisfying food.

Here, every dish is designed to evoke a sense of 'home', whether you're a Filipino-Australian missing the flavours of your motherland or a curious diner eager to explore one of the world's most exciting and diverse cuisines. The team at Lolo and Lola prides itself on a menu that celebrates the colourful heritage of the Philippines, crafted with simplicity and a commitment to quality ingredients, all infused with a distinctly Canberra touch.

Menu Highlights at Lolo and Lola

The menu at Lolo and Lola is a journey through the Philippines' rich culinary landscape, from street-food staples to celebratory feast dishes. The guiding principle is clear: honest food made with heart. Popular dishes, frequently mentioned across Google Maps reviews and the official website, showcase the kitchen's range and skill.

Signature Dishes

The Halo-Halo is a must-try, a beloved shaved ice dessert layered with sweet beans, jellies, fruit, and leche flan, all crowned with ube ice cream — it's the perfect refreshing end to a flavour-packed meal. Equally celebrated is the Pork Sisig, a sizzling, savoury dish made from chopped pork cheeks and liver, known for its crispy texture and bold, tangy profile. Other standouts include the Spare Ribs, perfectly tender and caramelised, and the comforting Beef Soup (Nilaga), a hearty, clear broth boiling with marrow-rich beef and vegetables. For those seeking a sweet finish, the house-made Flan is also a popular choice. The menu also features a well-curated drinks list, including Mojitos and refreshing fruit juices to balance the rich flavours.

Beyond the Everyday Menu

Lolo and Lola extends its culinary offerings beyond dine-in meals. The restaurant is renowned for its specialty Filipino cakes, which are available for custom orders to make any occasion special. Customers looking to cater a party can order Party Food Trays, loaded with festive Filipino favourites that are guaranteed to impress guests. For a truly unique experience, the restaurant hosts special seasonal events, such as the 'Filipino Christmas Merienda Cena' — an afternoon tea that reimagines traditional holiday merienda treats. E-Gift Vouchers are also available, making the perfect present for friends and family who appreciate great food.

The Dining Experience at Lolo and Lola

Dining at Lolo and Lola is described by Google Maps reviewers as a warm, welcoming, and often lively experience. The interiors reflect the restaurant's ethos: family-oriented and unpretentious, a space where you can enjoy a casual meal that feels like a celebration. One Google Maps review notes how the restaurant fills up quickly after opening, creating a vibrant atmosphere that speaks to its local popularity. The restaurant is proudly LGBTQ+-friendly, ensuring everyone feels at home.

Service options cater to all preferences. You can enjoy your meal on-site with the dine-in service, grab a quick bite with the takeaway option, or conveniently order online for click-and-collect. While the Google Maps panel indicates 'No delivery' directly, customers can use the click-and-collect service to enjoy Lolo and Lola's food in the comfort of their own home.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The reputation of Lolo and Lola is powerfully reflected in its online presence. The restaurant holds an exceptional 4.7-star rating on Google Maps, based on over 1,100 reviews, a volume and score that places it among the top-rated Filipino restaurants in Canberra.

What Diners Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the generous portions and the authentic, homestyle quality of the food. One reviewer, who described it as the best Filipino restaurant they visited in Australia, was grateful for the meal that satisfied a deep homesick craving. Another customer, visiting for the first time, expressed amazement at the variety of savoury dishes and desserts, highlighting the portion sizes as being much larger than expected. A recurring theme among returning patrons is the restaurant's energetic atmosphere, with one family noting how the space was nearly full within 30 minutes of opening for a pre-Christmas dinner.

Common threads woven through the feedback include appreciation for the rich, comforting flavours, the family-friendly environment, and the excellent value for money. The owners and staff are frequently praised for their hospitality, contributing to a dining experience that feels both personal and professional.

Lolo and Lola in Watson

Lolo and Lola is conveniently located in the Watson neighbourhood, a well-known suburb in the north of Canberra. The restaurant sits at Shop 2, 3 Watson Place, a location that integrates it within the local community's daily life. The area is known for its mix of residential calm and a growing selection of eateries and local businesses, making it a pleasant destination for a dedicated dining trip.

While specific parking and accessibility details are not listed in the available sources, the restaurant's location in a local shopping complex typically suggests accessible options. To confirm specific accessibility features, such as a wheelchair-accessible entrance, it's best to contact the restaurant directly.

Hours, Reservations and Contact

Lolo and Lola operates with distinct lunch and dinner service times. Based on the Google Maps listing, the restaurant is currently open from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM for lunch and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM for dinner. The restaurant is closed outside of these hours. As hours can change on public holidays or for special events, a quick call can save a trip.

To book a table, you can use the 'Tisch reservieren' (Table Reservation) feature found on their Google Maps profile. For click-and-collect orders, you can visit their Click and Collect website. For any other inquiries, the restaurant can be reached by phone at +61 487 908 485 or by email at admin@loloandlola.com.au.

Common Questions

What type of cuisine does Lolo and Lola serve?

Lolo and Lola serves authentic Filipino cuisine, a celebration of the Philippines' rich culture, history, and flavours.

Does Lolo and Lola offer takeaway?

Yes, the restaurant offers a takeaway (Zum Mitnehmen) option and an online click-and-collect service.

What are Lolo and Lola's opening hours?

The restaurant is open for lunch from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and for dinner from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. It is closed between lunch and dinner service.

What are the most popular dishes at Lolo and Lola?

According to the menu and customer reviews, the most popular dishes include Halo-Halo, Pork Sisig, Spare Ribs, and Flan.

How can I order a custom cake from Lolo and Lola?

You can order specialty Filipino cakes through the restaurant's website by navigating to the 'CAKE ORDER' section. They also offer party food trays for catering.

Does Lolo and Lola offer delivery?

While the Google Maps listing specifies 'Kein Lieferdienst' (No delivery), you can conveniently order food for collection through their Click and Collect online service.