The brothers started the original Lola's with their mother Estrella Craigie, now a Lola to Al’s daughter Callia. It’s also an ode to Al’s Lola's carinderia in Santa Cruz Manila, his earliest memory of being in Philippines and introduction to Filipino cuisine. If you’re lucky, you might catch Lola there bringing that warm Filipino hospitality. Filipino food is the South-East Asian answer to soul food, with Al adding a contemporary twist. Traditional dishes like Inasal Chicken (Filipino BBQ Chicken) are on the menu, and diners can also experience a “Boodle Fight”, where carefully curated dishes served on a banana leaf traditionally eaten with your hands (book 24 hours ahead). "If there was one crowd favourite it will be the fried chicken and gravy. It's our nod to Filipino chain Jollibee's, chicken joy", says Al, who puts his own spin – and a cheeky nod - on this Filipino hit. If you've ever tried Lola's Gravy either at the previous restaurant or when RoyAl's runs it with their Burger of the Week, you know you can drink it by the bucket-full. Dietary requirements will be catered for. “There will be some gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options including a fried eggplant adobo and braised coconut chilli and ginger greens" says Al, stressing that everyone will be looked after and feel taken care of.
