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Not really impressed

3 Posted on 02 / 16 / 2013

I stumbled upon this place when I was wandering through town with my partner and was surprised I hadn't spotted it on Happy Cow (especially since just the day before I'd been hoping to find a new place to try in the CBD). The previous review said the food was decent, varied and reasonably priced. So we took the narrow lift up and found quite a new and modern-looking place, whereas I'd got the impression it was a bit makeshit but it wasn't at all. There were several wooden tables with large seats, as well as booths. I asked about vegan food and was informed to some degree about what was available, although there was a little bit of uncertainty and some conferring took place amongst staff. I have to say that when I looked at the menu, and while there was a good variety (about 10 mains were not vegan out of over 30) the prices did not really seem reasonable to me. Mains were around $18-$20 and I thought this too much for what they were, but also thought that maybe there would be large servings. After a while it occurred to me that another group who had arrived after us were being served first and then after 15-20 minutes a waiter came over and told us he had forgotten to put in our order and did we still want it. (The place was not at all busy and it was before 6pm). I realise this is only one incident, and maybe some points for honesty are in order, but it did not add to our experience. When it arrived, the food itself was served with a colourful orchid garnish and was fine but nothing special. We had a field mushroom and vegetable dish, a lower-priced green bean dish, rice and spring rolls (three for $5). While we were excited to see a new veg*n place in the CBD, I won't be rushing back.

Pros: Newly renovated with views over the CBD, Variety of dishes
Cons: Prices a bit too high, Staff a bit inattentive

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Nice, healthy and great taste

4 Posted on 01 / 28 / 2013

I came across this place literally yesterday.
It's above Noodle Kingdom on Swanston street, a stones throw from Bourke street, Melbourne Central and QV. Access is via the lift which is the main negative of this place. If you're a bulky wheel chair or have a double pram... plan ahead. I ended up just ditching the double for a single and a baby carrier.
Once upstairs, you're greeted by professional staff with nice decor. Very Eastern Buddhist influence.
Food wise: good price, good size servings and more importantly, tastes great. Loved their Jade Buddha fried rice and that Egg plant... well done.
Criticisms? The lift aside, and there's not much that could be done about that, a few more rice and noodle dishes can't hurt. For the lunch crowd, might be a little limited. Otherwise, it's a nice, healthy option. The thing I love about it is that there isn't an over-reliance on Mock meat. This is a vegie place that knows Vegetarianism's roots.

Pros: Location, Price, Food
Cons: The lift, Exposure, Lunch Variety