DOC Espresso

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D.O.C. Espresso

It's nearly 9 o'clock on Wednesday evening and D.O.C. café, located near the Nova end of Lygon street, is full to the brim. I'm surprised that midweek there are no seats left outdoors. I haven't been to D.O.C. before but it reminded me of visiting a bustling, slightly brisk Italian café in Rome. D.O.C. obviously has a big following, perhaps for many reasons I can't gather from a flying visit, but from my dining I'd say the pasta is a real draw card.



Their website states that D.O.C. is 'real Italian eating and age old simplicity refreshed with contemporary flair.' They boast that they are 'Authentic, Exuberant and Outrageously Italian.' I'd love to know how they define it but I absolutely agree about the feel.

D.O.C. is apparently a phrase used by various agricultural government bodies that set and oversee the standards of some Italian foods, most significantly cheese and wine. It is an apt choice for the name of the restaurants.

I note that the seats are not made for lounging around. I guess they need people to move in and out quickly and have selected the furniture for such.



And now for the food review. I am going out on a limb here when I say that their take on vegetarian lasagna is the best ever. The tomato sauce is rich and full-bodied and the layers jam packed with delicious vegetables such as an eggplant and all this is topped off with a very generous serve of cheese.

My friend had a squid ink pasta. This is a gourmet silky black meal, which he assured me, was delicious even though I thought it looked ghastly. As much as I loved my meal and was curious, I just couldn't try the black pasta.



They sell award winning artisan pizza and run amazing delicatessens. The prices were reasonable, especially for the quality of the food. I wish I'd tried more.

It's a pity I can't find the menu on-line because the unique dishes are sure to entice you. On the upside, if you visit you're in for a nice surprise.

If you like the sound of D.O.C., you might also like to visit the delicatessen next door. D.O.C. Pizza and Mozzarella Bar is at 295 Drummond St Carlton, 22 Main St Mornington and 135 Victoria Avenue, Albert Park.

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