FREO’S HIDDEN BALINESE TREASURE

There is a hidden treasure in Fremantle that celebrates it’s 15th anniversary this year. I am talking about the cute Victoria Cafe next to the E Shed markets at Victoria Quay.

Jupiter Salem has been running this cosy Indonesian restaurant successfully for that long because of the quality of service and food. We witnessed it again last eve when a party of 16 of us went there. Everybody was more than delighted with the food and service, and the prices are pretty good as well, with main meals at dinner time all coming in under $ 18.00, but for two, that sell for just $ 20.90. The Nasi Goreng and Mee Goreng are only $ 11.90 and if you want the special version of it with sate sticks and sauce they are $ 15.90.

Be a bit more adventurous and try the Beef Rendang, the Ayam Bumbu Rujak, the Ayam Kalasan or the Sapi Lada Hitam. Ooh, and the spicy Sambal gives you a nice hit. Sophie and I were fighting over it last eve.

I tried Tahu Campur, bean curd omelette topped with bean sprouts, baby beans and sate sauce for the first time, last eve, and it was delicious.

One real plus of this homely restaurant are the acoustics, you can actually hear yourself talk, so it is also a lovely place for a romantic dinner. It’s also a good spot for watching ships entering and leaving port, and it has a large alfresco area.

Whenever my oldest sister Marja and her Indonesian man Jan visit from the Netherlands, the Victoria is the place they want to go to.

Victoria Cafe is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8-3 and 5.30-9.30. Contact 9430 7588 and check out the Facebook page for specials!

Roel Loopers

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