Mama Ally Espresso

My wife and I visited on Wednesday 12 November while out for a coffee, and we’re really glad we stopped in. Mama Ally Espresso is a Filipino-run café offering a mix of traditional Filipino dishes alongside familiar breakfast and lunch options. They open early — around 6:30 a.m. — and close at 2:00 p.m., seven days a week. The café sits at the base of a block of apartments, facing beautiful Lake Macquarie. Out front, there’s a shaded outdoor seating area under a large marquee-style cover with pull-down screens. The esplanade traffic can make it a bit noisy at times, but the setup is welcoming, with plenty of plants and even small herb beds growing mint, basil, parsley, fennel and more — a really nice touch. Inside, it’s compact but functional, with everything neat and well-organised. For food, I had the bacon and egg roll on a brioche bun. The bacon was perfectly crisp, and the egg was cooked just right — lovely and runny. We also shared the Filipino spring rolls (Lumpia Shanghai) with Pancit noodles, and they were absolutely delicious. A really positive experience overall, and we’re keen to come back and try more from the menu.

Amazing food. Such good value for money. Smoothie excellent too. Service wonderful. Would come back any day.

I love this Filipino inspired cafe! Authentic menu, flavours and delicious food! I love their pandan and ube latte! I got their on special filipino chicken, garlic rice and pickled vegetables! So good, I’ve been here a few times and find myself coming back to try more on their menu!

We went here for lunch and it was lovely. The restaurant was booked out and we didn’t have a reservation, but we ended up being able to get a table—luckily, there was a table that just finished. The restaurant is nice, service was fantastic, professional, and accommodating. The food was delicious with generous portions. Compliments to the chef!👌 Thank you to the wonderful staff that we met Cyril and her team and the owner who hosted she's warm and very welcoming. Would highly recommend! 🎉

Delicious Filipino food and drinks. Must try the iced Ube latte and Strawberry Matcha! Also does amazing coffee!! Also a great location with lake views.