Francis Portales
Chef, founder, and the soul of the kitchen
Meet the Chef Behind the Flavor
Chef, founder, and the soul of the kitchen Meet the Chef Behind the Flavor
ROOTED IN LIMA, PERÚ.
Reimagined in Pineville, North Carolina.
ROOTED IN LIMA, PERÚ.
Reimagined in Pineville, North Carolina.
Lola is more than just a restaurant—it’s a dream brought to life. Founded by Francis Portales, a single mother of two, this journey began with a food truck and a deep love for cooking.
Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Francis grew up in a kitchen filled with the rich aromas of home-cooked meals. She learned from the best—her mother and grandmother—absorbing the flavors, traditions, and love passed down through generations.
TRADITION MEETS CREATIVITY
Each dish at Lola reflects Francis’s journey—rooted in
tradition and reimagined with a creative touch. She blends the
comforting flavors of Peru with her own unique, modern style.
Each dish at Lola reflects Francis’s journey—rooted in tradition and reimagined with a creative touch. She blends the comforting flavors of Peru with her own unique, modern style.
A SPACE FILLED
WITH HEART
A SPACE FILLED WITH HEART
Lola has grown from a humble food truck into a thoughtfully designed restaurant—a true labor of love. Personally designed and decorated by Francis, the space reflects her warm, welcoming spirit and her belief that food is meant to bring people together.
After months of transformation, Lola is back—bigger, cozier, and more vibrant than ever. This isn’t just a reopening. It’s a continuation of a story—and an invitation to be part of it.
