July 25, 2008: Bodhi Cafe

   

It's no secret that I enjoy a faux meat treat every now and then, and Bodhi Cafe's been on my restaurant wishlist ever since Kristy blogged about it. We were surprised to see this sleek and inviting cafe empty when we arrived at 6:30, and expected that we might see a few more customers later.

The menu offers a handful of deep fried entrees then runs the gamut of rice, noodle and soup dishes. Most, though not all, include a faux meat - chicken, lamb, beef and seafood all get a mention.

   

We started off by sharing a duck roti roll ($5). It was a little small for the price, but undoubtedly tasty - the modest amount of salty faux-duck was combined with shredded lettuce and mayonnaise, then wrapped with a hot and flaky roti. Goodbye KFC cravings!

   

Bodhi also offers a wide range of flavoured teas and coffees. Kristy recommended the kumquat tea ($6) and I was willing to give it a go - it's cute and sweet, and had a pithy edge.

   

For my main meal I ordered the vegie chicken rice ($9) - "deep fried crispy vegetarian chicken with salt and pepper and some special sauce". Though I liked the flavour of the sauce, it was bathed in a rather unattractive oil slick (I've also had this problem making satay sauce at home). Worse, the chicken pieces were overcooked and very oily.

   

Yet again, Michael was giving me order envy! His Thai green curry with rice ($10.50) was fragrant and the chicken meltingly tender - proof positive that Bodhi can deliver the faux meat goods.

Unfortunately we didn't witness a spike in customers during our time at here - just a couple of takeaway orders. Perhaps the inconsistency we experienced is part of the problem? It's a shame because the overall impression this cafe made on me was a good one. With prices well below those at the White Lotus, I plan to return and explore the menu further.

Update 18/7/2010: Unfortunately Bodhi has closed down (sometime ago), I guess the number of customers didn't pick up.

Address: 241 Victoria St, Abbotsford
Phone: 9416 1889
Licensed and BYO wine
Price: entrees $4-6, mains $8-10.50