TORONTO - There’s a popular Ontario restaurant where pork isn’t just a feature on the menu, it’s the main protein.

“We are over 90 percent pork on our menu,” said Carol Opiniano co-owner of Lechon Republik.

Located in Toronto’s Englemount-Lawrence neighbourhood, Lechon Republik has become a destination location for those looking for genuine Filipino food.

“We are very traditional we don't use MSG,” says Opiniano.  

Carol and her husband Jonathan immigrated to Canada 10 years ago where they took a passion for food and opened their first restaurant. Today they proudly have four Lechon Republik restaurants operating across the GTA.

“Coming from a developing country we're hard workers, we are very resilient.”

According to Carol, what sets their restaurants apart from their competitors is that the food they sell is raised by Ontario pork farmers.

“Our customers know that what we serve is always fresh. It's good that we serve quality products. Using Ontario Pork, we can assure our customers that it's delicious and safe.”

Lechon Republik has developed such a positive reputation, they have a loyal customer base that will travel for hours for a taste of something on their menu.

“We just moved to St. Catharines and for the last two years every time we come to the city, we always come here to Lechon because the food is so good,” said regular customer Jerome Fetalvero.

Carol Opiniano says there is a sense of pride in buying locally raised food, knowing that her small contribution is also helping generate jobs in the province.

“With patience, with strong determination, with local food we have become a success, buying our food helps not just us but also Ontario pork farmers.”

Watch the video on the success of Lechon Republik here: https://youtu.be/GPQO6GBdeJE