My name is Rukiya Abdinasir and I’ve lived in the west-side for over 15 years with my family. We are of a Somali background and with all the great things that the west offers there’s quite a good range when it comes to the food scene. Here are some of my favourite places to eat in the hope that others will give them a go too!
- Somali Eats: 333 Racecourse Rd, Kensington
I know this is slightly out of the area, but if you’ve never had traditional Somali food before look no further. This place has something for everyone, with food ranging from traditional dishes to more modern dishes and desserts. One of my favorite things to order is the rice and chicken, as well as Xalwo (pronounced hal – awo) which is a sticky, sweet traditional Somali sweet.
- Aangan Indian Restaurant: 559 Barkly St, West Footscray
If you love Indian food go to Aangan in West Footscray! Aangan has become a staple over the years, it’s somewhere you can go for a quick bite, yet it’s fancy enough to take someone out to as well. Everything on the menu is delicious, but my favorite go-to is the butter chicken and garlic naan – it’s a must for people who haven’t tried it yet!
- The Rollin Dough: 469 Ballarat Rd, Sunshine
Ever since my friend introduced me to the Rollin Dough, this place has become one of my favorite go-to pizza spots. It’s on Ballarat Rd and is close enough for me and my mates to dine in on the weekends. They produce the freshest and tastiest pizzas I believe in the west, with the margherita being one of my favorites. What made this place for me was the fact that I’ve never found a margherita pizza that was cheesy enough and tasted this good for such a cheap price before, and for me that’s worth it!