Whilma's Filipino Restaurant

Whilma's Filipino Restaurant has been a Searcy institution since 2009, when Chef Whilma Frogoso transformed her lifelong passion for cooking into Arkansas' premier destination for authentic Filipino cuisine. Growing up in the Philippines, Whilma learned to prepare classic Filipino dishes and treasured family recipes from her father, knowledge she continued developing even while working as an accountant. After moving to the United States with her husband Jimmy and their four children (Rafael, Patricia, Carlos, and Kristina) in search of a better life, Whilma followed her culinary calling by opening this beloved restaurant that shares the best of Filipino culture through fresh, delicious dishes. The menu celebrates authentic Filipino cuisine with Chef Whilma's unique creative touches, from savory curries cooked with coconut milk to tender marinated adobo that showcases traditional Filipino flavors. Signature dishes include tapsilog (beef with garlic fried rice and egg), lemon pork steak not found on the regular menu but available upon request, lumpia so tasty they're consistently praised, and perfectly executed pancit canton. The halo-halo features just the right amount of sweetness with proper ingredient balance. Whilma's offers customizable spice levels for curry dishes and provides vegetarian options alongside classic meat preparations. What makes dining at Whilma's special is the genuine family atmosphere - multiple generations of the Frogoso family work together to create experiences where customers feel like welcomed guests. Located on East Race Avenue, Whilma's serves Searcy residents, Harding University students, and travelers seeking authentic Filipino food in Arkansas. Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-7pm, this family-owned restaurant brings Filipino hospitality and straight-from-the-heart home cooking to Central Arkansas.