Opposite Footscray Market on busy Hopkins Street, Bo De Trai is the only purely vegetarian restaurant I’ve found in Melbourne’s western suburbs. The place looks a little tired these days but the food more than makes up for it.
The highlight here is steaming bowls of noodle soup that are truly delicious. The tomato soup with rice noodles comes filled with gluten that gives it an almost cheesy flavour. Hearty and filling, this is a real treat at any time of year, but particularly on a cold winter’s day. It comes with bean shoots, mint, lemon and chillies on the side for you to season as desired and a dash of sambal is always recommended. The wonton soup and Hue-style hot soup are also especially good, with strong flavours and well crafted broths.
At $6.50-7.50 for the soups, you really can’t go wrong. A full Asian mock meat menu also abounds, however the noodle soups really are the best picks. Bookings aren’t essential, but it can get busy at times so if you want to make sure you don’t have to wait then it’s best to call ahead. Be sure to take cash as they don’t have credit card facilities.
13/20
Bo De Trai Vegetarian Restaurant
94 Hopkins Street,
Footscray
03 9689 9909
Last Updated on Tuesday, 12 May 2009 21:40