This Pinay Created a Filipino Restaurant Inside a Car Wash and People Loved It

Finding scrumptious food inside a car wash is probably the last thing you would expect upon entering such an establishment. But somewhere along Tampa Avenue in Northridge, California, you will find this quirky Filipino restaurant tucked within a local car wash.

Stepping inside Cruisers, you will first find yourself greeted with the fragrance of car air fresheners, steering wheel covers, and other car cleaning materials. A few more minutes inside and you’ll surely notice the delicious smell of home-cooked Filipino food wafting in the air — straight from Lilian’s kitchen.

Lilian’s Bread and Sweets is the brainchild of Lilian Masaya, a Filipina whose passion for cooking has led to a unique food experience for various diners. Asked what made her set up a restaurant inside a car wash, Lilian simply explained that it was a strategic location. The car wash provides consistent foot traffic and always brings in new clients to her restaurant.

It proved to be a brilliant idea. Lilian’s restaurant has gained some traction, and although the location certainly helped, there’s no denying that their popularity was due to their sumptuous dishes.

“Filipino food is simple and delicious,” said Lilian in an interview.

It’s probably this uncomplicated quality of Filipino dishes that captures the hearts of many foodies. But whatever reason people may have for enjoying Filipino food, it’s definitely high time for this cuisine to be recognized internationally.

Filipino food has been overlooked for the longest time, but thankfully, it has been slowly getting the attention of thousands of people from different parts of the world. Although largely influenced by Spanish, Chinese, and American cuisines, Filipino food certainly has its own character.

No doubt, Lilian’s Bread and Sweets is a huge contribution to the growing awareness of Filipino food in the culinary world.

The restaurant is famous for their halo-halo, a cold dessert made of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various toppings like sweetened beans, coconut jellies, sago, and much more. Lilian says it’s “the best in the West.”

Don’t be fooled by the name Lilian’s Bead and Sweets, though. Apart from desserts and snacks, they also have a menu bursting with chicken, pork, and beef dishes — all best paired with heaps of warm rice.

With regards to the success of her restaurant, Lilian fervently expressed her gratitude stressing on the importance of having such a wonderful team.

“Without them, I am nothing,” she said.