Named after Carlos P. Romulo, the Philippine diplomat and statesman — Romulo Café brings upscale Filipino home cooking to the Annex with lechon de leche, pancit, and halo-halo served in a warm, family-style room. The most complete introduction to Philippine cuisine in Toronto.
Neighbourhood: Annex (425 College St) · Address: 425 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1T1 · Hours: Mon–Thu 12PM–10PM | Fri–Sat 12PM–11PM | Sun 11AM–9PM · Price Range: $$ · Phone: (416) 536-7520 · Website: https://romulocafe.ca · Editorial status: Not yet verified
It’s the go-to spot if you want to show a friend the breadth of Filipino flavours, with a mix of classics and lesser-known regional dishes. The menu goes beyond pancit and adobo, offering expertly prepared comfort food that isn’t trying too hard.
Romulo Café stands out for actually giving Filipino cuisine a sit-down, family-style experience in the Annex, something not easily found in Toronto. The kitchen balances nostalgia and refinement—the lechon kawali is crisp, the sinigang sharp and tangy, all with thoughtful plating. Most Filipino spots in town focus on quick eats or takeout, so this is where you linger over a proper meal.
Romulo Café at 425 College St is Toronto’s window into Filipino home cooking, but with a more polished, family-style presentation. The menu leans on crowd-pleasers like sinigang na hipon (shrimp tamarind soup), lechon de leche, chicken adobo, and beautiful, all-in halo-halo desserts. The space feels familiar and lively, run by a team deeply rooted in Filipino tradition who treat diners like regulars from the moment you walk in. Expect a dining room that’s equally prepped for sharing big plates with friends or bringing the entire extended family.
Reservations are highly recommended on weekends and for groups, but walk-ins are usually possible on weeknights.
The lechon kawali—crispy fried pork belly—is a can’t-miss and easily enough for sharing.
Yes, tables are set up for sharing and they can accommodate groups up to 10–12 people if you book ahead.
Mains run $18–$30, and sharing is encouraged, so expect about $30–$45 per person with drinks.
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