Legendary Lolo Dad's

When I was young, my idea of fine dining was based on stories my cousin told me about Lolo Dad's.  

He said that every time he wanted to impress a girl, he would bring her to Lolo Dad's even if it would cost him an arm and a leg because the revered Manila restaurant was in a class by itself, offering exquisite food, excellent service, and the perfect ambiance.

Open Kitchen

Since then, I've always wondered what it was like to have dinner at Lolo Dad's and it sadly took a million  years for me to know the answer.   

Complimentary Bread

and Butter

The bread was not even warm.

Double Espresso of Tomato and Mushroom Soup

We were given complimentary shots of  two of the most famous soups of Lolo Dad's. Both were flavorful and interesting, but I loved the tomato more.

Gratinated White Onion Soup (340php)

Not the best version I've tried. It was salty and didn't have the sweetness I was looking for.

Oyster with Foie Gras (145php)

The foie certainly made this a winning appetizer but I wished for a fresher oyster.

Raspberry Sorbet

Before the entree, this was served to cleanse the palate.

Halibut with Sauteed Prawns (990php)

The fish and shrimps were perfectly cooked and seasoned well. I also enjoyed the truffle flavored pasta and potato cake that accompanied the proteins. 

My very thoughtful friends surprised me with this chiffon cake since it was my birthday. This Lolo Dad's chiffon cake was fluffy with the right amount of sweetness. Delicious!

Here are the dishes my friends ordered: 

Degustation Plate 1 (2,800php)

Degustation Plate 2 

Degustation Dessert 1

Degustation Dessert 2

Pork Belly Cooked in Sage Fat, Apple Tart, Herb Jus (965php)

Grilled Halibut and Baby Lobster (1,190php)

Herb de Provence Crusted Rack of Lamb (1,340php)

Steamed Chilean Sea Bass (1,380php)

Roasted Beef Tenderloin (1,390php)

Sadly, we were all underwhelmed by the food at Lolo Dad's. The servers also lacked the finesse that one expects from a fine dining restaurant. 

I hate to say it but Lolo Dad's is past its prime.  

Lolo Dad's is located at 899 President Quirino Avenue, cor. Leon Guinto Street, Malate, Manila. For more information, call 2522294 or click here.