Dede Indonesian & Thai (or Dede’s, as it’s often also referred to) in North Hobart is a real crowd-pleaser. Cheap prices, family-friendly atmosphere, and central to Elizabeth Street’s expanding restaurant strip, Dede is one of my favourite spots in town for a casual and relaxed meal.
I first visited Dede back when I was about 13 years old with my school’s Indonesian language class, and I’ve loved it ever since. Dede’s has had a bit of a makeover since those days, but the menu has remained largely the same – delicious, fresh and great value.
I’m quite excited that Mr Q has now joined me in Australia from England, and was so happy to introduce him to Dede Restaurant last week.
We arrived starving and were quickly seated and immediately offered a bowl of prawn crackers to munch on while we perused the menu. Mr Q ordered the pangist, which are pork and prawn dumplings – crispy little parcels with a tangy sweet chilli sauce.
I ordered the same thing I always do – the lemper ayam – little sticky rice rolls that are stuffed with minced chicken and served at room temperature with some satay peanut sauce. Heaven. And, for $7.00 each, these little dishes were a real bargain.
Entrees finished, we eagerly awaited the arrival of our main courses.
Again, I had problems deviating from the dish I regularly order, which is a stir-fried beef with coconut milk, coriander, chilli and lemongrass.
Packed with veggies and perfectly-tender meat, this stir-fry is satisfying but feels quite healthy at the same time.
Mr Q opted for the crispy pork stir-fry, which I must admit, I was rather envious of…
The restaurant was absolutely packed for a Tuesday night, with many groups being turned away, so I advise booking in advance if you can. Dede also will ensure that your meal is gluten-free if this is a requirement for your diet.
I’ve eaten at Dede’s at least a dozen times (maybe more!) over the years and I’ve never had a mediocre experience. Every single time, the food is great, the service is even better, and I’ve been left with plenty of change still in my purse (after a generous tip, of course!), and that’s just how I hope it remains for many more years to come.
Dede Indonesian & Thai Cuisine
369 Elizabeth St, North Hobart TAS 7000
(03) 6231 1068
I want those sticky rice rolls!
They’re so good, especially with the peanut sauce. I could eat at least a dozen of ’em! 🙂