By Emma Ferguson, For Clay Today<\/p>\n
ORANGE PARK \u2013 When you walk into Lola\u2019s Filipino Cafe and Mini Store, you\u2019re welcomed with the rich smell of fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s what Nino Villamor was going for when he and his family officially took over ownership this month. Previously, Lola\u2019s, located at 1241 Blanding Blvd., had been owned by a husband and wife since 2021. Now, it is 100% veteran owned.<\/p>\n
\u201cLola means \u2018grandma\u2019 in Filipino. The concept was the home cooking of a grandmother,” he said.<\/p>\n
After being in the military as a Navy culinary specialist for 22 years, Villamor developed a passion for food and serving the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s always been my passion, surrounding food service. We wanted to share that tradition and the culture through the food.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nino and his family come from an area with authentic Filipino food and culture. In addition to the restaurant\u2019s adobo chicken and pork, lumpia, traditional pompano and pancit, Lola\u2019s also offers a selection of Filipino snacks and groceries.<\/p>\n
\u201cI grew up in an area where our dishes [were] comprised of coconut milk, chilis, and hot peppers. Anything you can pick up in a Filipino household, we try to have it,\u201d Nino said.<\/p>\n
By embracing their Filipino roots, Lola\u2019s provides a warm, welcoming environment for everyone. And because October is Filipino American History Month, Nino and his family are also practicing culinary traditions throughout the month.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I was in the military, we celebrated every Filipino Heritage Month. There are traditions that are unique, like we make a whole roasted pig.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nino and his family pride themselves in upholding tradition and sharing their culture through the food they serve.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe atmosphere of feeling like you\u2019re eating at home. We try to know each customer. We have that personal connection with every customer.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ultimately, Nino\u2019s goal is to keep sharing Filipino culture through his culinary skills and passion.<\/p>\n
And by fostering relationships with his family and the community, they are building a stronger presence in the Orange Park area.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want people to know we exist. We are the only Filipino restaurant in the vicinity of [Orange Park]. If you\u2019re missing home or want a piece of the Philippines, come check us out.\u201d<\/p>\n
In the future, Nino hopes to also expand the business to other areas of North Florida to continue fostering the presence of Filipino culture.<\/p>\n
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