In a sea of franchises, this family-run Filipino gem in Caroline Springs stands out

The Age

17-07-2025

Kare-kare is a beef and peanut stew, made here with ossobuco which enriches the nutty gravy. It comes with green beans, eggplant and a house-made shrimp paste that brings a dimensional saltiness to the dish. Eat the kare-kare with rice or, perhaps, a bouncy, stir-fried noodle dish that's wokked with prowess.
Rubenio trained as a pastry chef and his desserts are refined. The leche pie is a spin on the famous Filipino flan, which resembles creme caramel. Set in a perfect, delicate pastry case and drizzled with maple syrup and cream, it finds the crossover between indulgence and elegance.
Pride is often a secret ingredient in Filipino food – and rightly so: this is a cuisine that's varied and subtle, even as it wallops you with fatty pork or evaporated milk. Mrs Parks is an expression of culture, welcoming and sincere, showcasing skill in every dish. No wonder it's hard to make decisions here.