Why are they called “Lolo’s”?
The story behind the name “lolo” goes back to the 17th century and the Colonization period.
Back then, warehouses were set up in the middle of plantations to house slaves and store merchandise prior to being used or sold.
Over time, the slaves’ living quarters grew to become entire districts which gradually formed small villages but the warehouses remained. Turned into local food outlets where retailers used a sale unit called a “lot”, the name of these outlets naturally evolved to “lolo”.
The first lolos had bar areas which were popular because they stayed open late. Owners would share local gossip over a drink and keep a tab open for their regular customers.
Socially, the lolos played a vital role outside of working hours. These neighborhood hot spots became important drivers of social cohesion and are now deep-rooted in the heritage of St-Martin.
Eventually, these traditional bars evolved, transforming yesterday’s lolos into today’s authentic restaurants that draw many a visitor in.