Lola’s Bistro : Coffee Hero Highlight #4

I met Chef Michael Abay in our old cafe at 2611 E. Douglas Ave. He came to taste various coffees as part of his sourcing effort for his soon to open restaurant, Lola’s Bistro [2146 N Collective Ln. Ste102]. It was clear to us that Chef Michael had given thought to his menu far beyond my imagination. Every meticulous detail was carefully thought through. He wanted everything to be perfect.

Chef Michael Abay, owner and chef at Lola’s Bistro in Northeast Wichita.

“We try to source the best products and ingredients for our restaurant,” says Chef Michael Abay. “After meeting with Andrew (Gough), I was impressed with the story behind Reverie and the passion he has with his coffee.”

Chef Michael was well into the construction of his restaurant when the project seemed to take more time than expected. And for a while, even many months after he had purchased the equipment to outfit his espresso bar, I was concerned if the project was going to get off the ground.

But Chef Michael never gave up. In October 2017 he opened his business doors, nearly a year after the big beautiful sign went onto the building. And it was worth the wait. His menu has influences of French, Italian, and Filipino cuisines that he calls New American. On my latest visit, my birthday, I enjoyed a perfectly temped ribeye. It was the best-seasoned steak I can remember.

From the beginning, Chef Michael has taken great care to source ingredients to craft his menu into the art that it is. He takes great pride in creating an entire dining experience, which is why Lola’s Bistro has offered one of the best coffee and tea programs in Wichita. “We are proud to serve Reverie coffee at Lola’s,” explains Chef Michael. The bartenders are trained baristas; they take great pride in preparing a well-crafted espresso-based beverage to finish your meal.

One of the best parts of the Lola’s Bistro experience is how fine the dining experience is in their relaxed and casual environment. It reminds me of the type of feeling I wish to have when I’m in a coffee shop, such as Reverie. Everyone is welcome and the service and experience is always aiming to be inviting, professional, and memorable.

Lola’s Bistro
2146 N Collective Ln., Ste102
Wichita, KS 67206
(316) 613–2223
www.lolas-bistro.com