John Studioaivali Sometimes gems can be found in plain sight - this much I can say is true for Cocomate. Not far off Cheltenham road in Keysborough, there is a wonderful Sri Lankan Cafe/Restaurant named “Cocomate”. Barely 8 months old, most will find this cafe through social media - the latest TikTok post advertises Cocomate’s rare price of $15 for a Buffet lunch! And I can attest to that as my research paid off handsomely.
Sanka is your wonderful host (and owner) who will stop at nothing to make your visit as comfortable and delightful as possible. His passion for service and excellence in cooking traditional meals is quite refreshing in an industry that’s struggling with the cost of living being so high in Australia.
A quick tour will reveal simplicity in the surroundings with adequate seating and access to an outside patio for those summer months. Once settled and perusing the menu, it is quite obvious that the many options available will suit many a palate!
My favourite was the traditional style Sri Lankan fare in the buffet area. I was in heaven! Each visit will surprise and delight, as the options are more than I would expect from any restaurant.
Wether it’s beef, goat or chicken, the presentation is mouth-watering and cooked with expertise - no rubbery meat or cuts full of sinew and fat. Some weeks you may be lucky to find jackfruit curry or manyokka curry (cassava), or the delectable plumb curry. Dahl is served as standard, and I will leave it up to you to discover the other wonderful dishes as they arise.
Traditional hoppers and roti are available and a number of drinks are also on offer, both on the menu and in the fridge - even some traditional juices and soft drinks are evident here.
My fancy also extends to certain delectable sweets offered in the display cabinet - I am partial to the custard but they also serve wali thalapa! Be inspired to come and try the various delights here - you wont be disapointed.
All in all the atmosphere is inviting, inspiring and remeniscent of entering a friend’s home for dinner - you are welcomed with open arms.
I would be hard pressed to find such a meal at this value anywhere!
Enjoy the photos I have provided - they speak more than words!
For service, atmosphere and character it’s a 5/5.
Food quality, texture, expertise and overall cooking it’s 5/5.
Parking and accessability could be better, but it is an industrial area, so be prepared for some on-street parking - 3.5/5.
Overall it’s a very high 4.5/5.
5 /5