Lisa's Filipino Cuisine
If you’re ever cruising through National City and craving something rich, flavorful, and straight-up comforting, Lisa’s Filipino Cuisine is the move. Tucked inside 1210 E Plaza Blvd Ste 410, this casual gem brings a slice of the Philippines right to Southern California with dishes that feel like a warm hug from your Filipino auntie.
First off, the food? Unmissable. Their BBQ Chicken is juicy, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet. Then there's the Pork Sisig—crispy, tangy, and sizzling hot, it’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. But don’t sleep on their Chicken Adobo either. It's a savory classic done right: tender chicken simmered in soy, vinegar, and garlic, just like it should be.
And if you’ve got room (you better save some), the Halo Halo is the ultimate cool-down treat. It’s vibrant, colorful, and loaded with shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, and creamy leche flan—an Instagram-worthy dessert that actually tastes as good as it looks. For something heartier, the Kare Kare brings that rich peanut sauce goodness, perfect over a warm bed of rice.
What really makes Lisa’s spot stand out—besides the food—is the vibe. It's super chill, with moderate noise levels that make it lively without being chaotic. It’s totally kid-friendly, great for groups, and yes, even your pup can tag along. Whether you're dropping by with the fam or catching up with friends, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you're part of the neighborhood.
So yeah, if authentic Filipino flavors are calling your name, Lisa’s Filipino Cuisine is definitely worth a visit.
Reviews
Don't let the fast food setup deceive you, as this joint serves srummy Filipino food! 12/14/2024. BBQ chicken on the stick: savory and slightly sweet marinade with tender and juicy chicken. Another plus is that they give you more chicken than other Filipino spots, 4/5 stars. Sinigang broth: the broth was sour yet savory, and the beef was so tender that it did not require much chewing, 4/5 stars. Pancit bihon: this was mildly flavored, but what stood out was the delicious char on the noodles from the wok, 3.5/5 stars. Fried calamari: lightly breaded but crispy with tender squid and easy to finish this entrée, 4/5 stars. They provide quick service, unlike their competitors, and they refill the entrées to ensure freshness. It's traditonal home cooking, but their recipes create pungent grub.
I read all the bad reviews and didn't want to come in being that I don't know what most of the food is called and I don't speak Tagalog. My stomach won though and I took my chances lol... It was a busy lunch rush and I was helped in turn. Nothing super bubbly but pleasant and to the point. (Perhaps things have changed since previous reviews were posted?) The lady served me up huge portions and seeing the hesitation on my face to pick another selection (I initially ordered the 2-option plate) she told me I could just do one option if I preferred and recommended a side of soup. I got everything pictured (huge plate lunch, side of soup, 2 banana lumpia for $14 something) Incredible. And everything is delicious. The meat is tender and juicy and saucy. Chefs kiss!!!
One of my favorite Filipino joints in San Diego. I think they do a really good pork sisig here, which happens to be one of my favorite Filipino dishes. I feel like Tita's kitchen gets all the love and Lisa's doesn't get enough love, so show them some love! The ladies working here are nice and service is quick! Lunch rush can get pretty busy but the line moves fast. To provide a quick rundown, you choose between pancit, white rice, or both and then choose your entree dishes. Make sure you ask for the free sinagang, it comes with the meal.
My new go-to spot for Filipino food! My parents love coming here so that's how you know it's legit! A 2 item combo is around $13 and the portions are very generous! Choose rice or pancit, and they have so many yummy foods on the hot bar. Last time I got sisig and pork steak. Sisig is my favorite, and they make it perfectly!! Other dishes include bbq, afritada, squid, adobo and more. Don't forget to ask for soup, I got sinigang last time. We also got ginataang bilo for dessert. This is a classic filipino hot bar setting so it's really no frills and fast service. I really recommend coming in here knowing what you want. Definitely coming back for really good Filipino food & more sisig :)
Great food, quick service and great prices. The staff are always very gracious as well!