This was my second lunch-time visit at Dobosala Cantina. The bright, contemporary and welcoming space was lively with groups of young people eagerly savouring various dishes of very innovative food. I noticed that the owner, Kunal Ghose (named 2018 Foodies of the Year by Western Living Magazine) was cooking in the kitchen.
I thought I would give the tempakora a second try as I had been underwhelmed the first time. The dish did not disappoint. Tender pieces of sweet potatoes, eggplant, zucchini and clusters of greens were fried to perfection. Both sauces served with the tempakora provided a nice contrast: the house made hot sauce was perfectly tangy and the tamari-tamarind ponzu complemented the taste and texture of the tempakora.
I also ordered the adobo chicken. The chicken adobo dish was very attractively served over a couple of tempakora sticky rice balls and garnished with shredded vegetables. The chicken was utterly moist and tender and very subtlely spiced. All the components of the dish brillantly came alive in each bite. The texture of the crispy rice balls was utterly perfect and a wonderful foil for the tasty sauce and succulent chicken. All in all a very harmonious marriage of different flavours, textures and spices. It’s a truly memorable dish.
My husband ordered the achiote-pineapple pork bowl. Served over pan-seared tender rice noodle and caramelized cabbage and garnished with greens and sprouts, the pork was meltingly tender and skillfully seasoned, if a tad salty. However, the pineapple and the other components of the dish provided a nice counterpoint, and the dish as a whole was perfectly balanced.
Both of us very much enjoyed the housemade mango hibiscus soda. The portions are generous and the prices reasonable. The service is very attentive and friendly and the ride-thru concept truly innovative.
On our next visit, we will make sure we leave room for dessert!
Any new restaurant needs some time to work out the kinks and provide a consistent guest experience. Dobosala Cantina provides an innovative dining experience and deserves the success it has garnered.
Delicious, sustainable, healthy, and a great price point. Really nice space too. Some of the best food in Victoria.
The Adobo chicken bowl was so good and great portion size for the $! The service helpul friendly and super quick. I walked in and out with a hot delicious meal in less than 10min. I'll be back!!
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