Having had dinner a while back at Pondok, an Indonesian restaurant in Parramatta, I was keen for a meal during the day so I could take photos of the fabulous food to share with you! So fellow westie Miss Piggy and I headed out to share lunch on a Saturday afternoon.
Pondok is next door to Circa Expresso (which sadly hasn’t been open so far on weekends this year) and just up the road from Parramatta train station. It was great to see the restaurant busy so with luck this means the word is getting out about it being a good spot for quick and flavoursome food.
First up (and my favourite) was the deep fried eggplant with red chilli. To my delight it did not at all seem like the eggplant was deep fried – if it was it must have been only for a millisecond. The chilli had a good amount of kick and thankfully it wasn’t burn-your-face-off hot. This dish is perfect with a little steamed rice and an icy cold drink.
Next was the deep fried marinated tempe which had a real smoky flavour to it. I’m yet to experiment with tempe in the kitchen and this tasty dish convinces me that it’s worth a shot.
Last but not least we had the gado-gado with lots of steamed mixed vegies, peanut sauce and a few prawn chips on top. It also came with boiled and quartered egg which I set aside for my dining pal to enjoy.
All this (plus Miss Piggy’s drink) cost $30, in total. That’s right, just $15 EACH! Now that’s a pretty cheap lunch, right? There was even enough eggplant to fill a take away container for my dinner. If you’re in the area it’s well worth checking out – generous servings, lots of flavour and excellent value for money.
Wish I was a bit closer to Parramatta. It’s a bit of a trek from the Shire but all of your beautiful locals make me want to do it! What a bargain too.
Gotta love a local bargain. I bet there are some great spots out your way I should visit too
i shall check out that place when im next in the area!
It’s well worth a visit
No wonder why this looks familiar. I’ve walked passed it numerous times. I have to say I’ve not had too much Indonesian food, but really wouldn’t mind giving it a go.
It’s right near Parramatta station too so easy to get to