Domali is a vegetarian-pescetarian café in Crystal Palace, South London. A firm favourite with the locals and in business for over fifteen years, it stands proudly on Westow Street amongst an eclectic mix of restaurants, pubs, bookshops and bakeries.
With a modern colour scheme and local art displayed on the walls for either perusing or purchasing, this café is a smart but relaxed affair. The atmosphere is bustling and vibrant and the staff are attentive but still leave you to your own devices. This is conducive to enjoying both a lively Sunday brunch with friends or a quiet lunch, just you and a book. Domali attracts an interesting mixture of creative, trendy types, devoted locals and large groups of families and friends so there is never a dull moment. Free WiFi ensures there are plenty of iPods/Pads/Phones on display, with any online activity fuelled by the fabulous coffee on offer. There is also a seductive garden out back which is perfect for alfresco dining.
Yet, despite all of this it is the food that draws me back time and time again – British, Mediterranean and Asian-inspired fare. You can have any meal your heart (and stomach) desires; breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, pre-supper cocktails and nibbles or candlelit evening meal. Domali may only serve vegetarian and fish dishes but carnivores need not look away now. The menu is extensive and the portions are ginormous enough to satisfy the most hungry of diners with imaginative and fresh flavours.
Doorstop sandwiches come in a variety of wholesome combinations (the hummus and carrot is particularly good) and the salads are substantial (vegetarian bacon anyone?). The BCM – Baked beans, Cheddar and Marmite on two hunks of farmhouse toast will defeat the deadliest of hangover, but if you are after something a little more refined, the smoked haddock fishcakes with chunky chips, tartar sauce and salad are also on offer. Add to the mix an array of regular and changing specials, delectable side dishes, fresh fruit smoothies, and homemade cakes and desserts and the result is greedy satisfaction.
My True London tip: arrive early before the crowds get there to avoid the queue. Grab the squishy leather couch positioned by the window, order a steaming mug of the decadent but divine White Hot Chocolate, a Domali institution, and watch the locals go by. A perfectly brilliant afternoon in this unique Crystal Palace café.
NicolaG
