Lola Remy’s, a new culinary gem in Penrith, offers an exciting fusion of traditional Filipino flavors, bringing the best of Philippine home cooking to the heart of the Jordan Springs shopping district.
A Cultural Fusion Dining Experience
The restaurant combines diverse Filipino culinary traditions, influenced by the country’s indigenous people, as well as Spanish, American, Japanese, and Chinese influences. With dishes prepared using high-quality ingredients, Lola Remy’s promises an authentic dining experience that blends savory meals with delightful desserts, all cooked with passion.
In addition to its restaurant offerings, Lola Remy’s also serves as a grocery store, selling affordable imported ingredients and cooking essentials. These products allow both beginners and seasoned chefs to recreate Filipino dishes and snacks at home, contributing to the growing appreciation for Filipino cuisine in Australia.
From Construction to the Kitchen
Lola Remy’s is the brainchild of Ronald Bermudez, who worked in the construction industry for over 30 years before transitioning to the food business. Alongside his two brothers, he saw a gap in the Penrith area for a restaurant that also provided Filipino food ingredients. His mother, Lola Remy (Lola meaning “Grandma” in Filipino), was the source of his cooking inspiration. She came from Pampanga, a region known for its culinary excellence.
While Ronald oversees dish preparation, a qualified cook and kitchen staff handle the daily operations to ensure quality.
Must-Try Dishes for First-Time Visitors
For those new to Filipino cuisine, Lola Remy’s offers a selection of recommended dishes. These are available in small, medium, or large takeaway containers:
Crispy Sisig – Pork cheek, capsicum, green chili, and special spices create a savory, spicy, and crunchy dish.
Pork Barbecue Skewers – Marinated pork neck grilled to smoky tenderness.
Beef Kare-Kare – Beef stew in rich peanut sauce, mixed with vegetables and shrimp paste.
Beef Caldereta – Spicy beef stew with vegetables and pureed liver pate.
Adobong Manok sa Gata – A twist on the classic Filipino chicken dish, braised in soy sauce, vinegar, coconut milk, and spices.
Lechon Pork Belly – Rolled pork belly, marinated and roasted with secret herbs and spices.
For the adventurous eater, Dinuguan (a savory pork dish cooked in blood, vinegar, and chili pepper) offers a unique experience.
To complete the meal, Ronald recommends trying Halo-Halo, a Filipino summer dessert, or purchasing Halo-Halo packs from their store to recreate the treat at home.
Catering and Customer Loyalty
Lola Remy’s offers discounts for loyal customers, especially during afternoon visits, and occasionally reduces prices on grocery packs. Large food orders come with a complimentary dessert.
They also offer catering services, with food trays available in various sizes. While the shop currently operates on a pick-up-only basis, they are partnered with Doordash for delivery.
Overcoming Challenges in the Food Industry
Since its opening in March, Lola Remy’s has faced several challenges, including attracting more customers from surrounding Western Sydney suburbs, managing increasing operational costs, and dealing with delayed shipping for Filipino ingredients. The Bermudez brothers are hopeful, however, that with the right support, they can continue to thrive in the competitive food industry.
A Mission of Filipino Hospitality and Comfort
Lola Remy’s aims to share two key aspects of Filipino culture:
Social Gatherings: Filipinos are known for their love of shared meals, which foster a sense of community and belonging. The restaurant aims to bring this tradition to a wider audience, offering a place for guests to connect over food.
Nostalgia for Migrants: For Filipino migrants in Australia, Lola Remy’s serves as a taste of home. It’s a chance to reconnect with the flavors and memories of their homeland, even if just for a moment.
Despite the challenges, the Bermudez family is determined to succeed, offering a welcoming, joyful experience where every guest feels like family.
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