The Best Filipino Restaurants in Australia
From sticky-sweet charred pork skewers to rich, hearty braises, Filipino food is an unashamedly meaty affair. Here’s our pick of places to indulge your carnivorous cravings.
Rey’s Place, Sydney
The juicy slow-roasted suckling pig is the way to go at this tiny two-storey restaurant in Darlinghurst, where contemporary takes on traditional dishes include fried chicken wings stuffed with chicken adobo mousse or king salmon ceviche with quinoa and avocado salsa.
GJ’s Grill, Melbourne
As the name suggests, the charcoal grill is the heart and soul of this restaurant, tucked down a laneway on the edge of the CBD. Perfect crunchy crackling on the roast pork is one reason to visit; another is the tangy, smoky flavour of crisp-skinned chicken.
Lolo and Lola, Canberra
Such was the demand for the Filipino baked treats and savoury fare at their Westside Village pop-up that owners Kim Cudia, Jay Prieto and Cristina Uy last year sought more permanent digs. Now in Watson, they have an expanded menu that changes monthly. Killer desserts remain a highlight.
Yes Please, Brisbane
This humble eatery is as authentic as it gets – hence the number of Filipino families who flock here for lunch and dinner. Classic dishes include kare kare (oxtail stew with bok choy and eggplant) and sizzling diced pork sisig, served topped with spring onion and an egg.
Lola’s Grilled Chicken, Perth
Lola’s atchara salad of pickled green papaya and vegetables is the perfect accompaniment for inasal – chicken marinated in the classic Filipino flavours of lemongrass, calamansi lime, garlic, pepper and annatto. To finish, indulge in banana spring rolls with palm sugar caramel and vanilla ice-cream.
