DoVa Brunch Cafe: Iloilo's Dining Treasure

Don't let the word cafe stop you from entering DoVa Brunch Cafe. It's a restaurant and brunch cafe that offers good food and great atmosphere. Some of their best-sellers include the Cornflake Friend Chicken & Waffle, pretty much anything with their scrumptious waffle, and deep-fried Cheese Ball appetizers.

DoVa Brunch Cafe entrance. The waiter was nice enough to take the picture for me.

Dova is often full during meal times. In fact, I suggest calling them for a reservation if you really want to eat there exactly at lunch or dinner time. Better yet, you might as well enjoy an early or late lunch.

True to their Ilonggo hospitality, Dova's servers remind me of the best Outback and Alfredo Steakhouse waiters. They're attentive, nice, and eager to please. You'd probably feel guilty for not leaving them a tip. 

Hummus Plate for 195 php. I personally do not like this Greek concoction. I'm more of a waffles kind of person.

Prices at Dova are at the higher end of what Ilonggo restaurants normally charge. Although affordable, don't expect to pay for a JD or Hungry Ninja meal. We ordered a Hummus Plate appetizer, two full entrees consisting of a Beef Brisket plate and a Bacon and Sausage Waffle meal, and two drinks. All in all, our total damage amounted to 970 php.  

Now, this is what you call an all-American meal with salty and spicy sausage, crispy bacon and overflowing maple syrup on top of a buttered waffle. Bacon and Sausage with Waffle for 240 php.

Is Dova's food that good? Yes. In a span of one week, I've gone their twice to satiate my palate and experience that Afrique's vibe in another setting. Try their Grape smoothie, it reminds me of my Cibo days.

Tiny Tidbit: You're probably wondering where the name came from. According to Panay News, Dova is the last two syllables of the name of the Chef and owner of the place itself, Chef Miguel Cordova.

The most expensive entree in our order, Beef Brisket with Black Rice. The meat was tender while the gravy and black rice was quite tasty. What I didn't like about this 350 php selection is the amount of fat on the beef. Maybe I could request a fat-trimmed one next time.

Dova is located at  Huervana Extension Street, LaPaz, Iloilo City. It's across the tennis court within the LaPaz Plaza. They're open from 9 am to 9 pm.

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Eleos at Molo: One of Iloilo's Dining Treasures

I came across this tiny resto by accident. Because of the Greek symbol used on its name, we had to ask their server how the name was pronounced.

Pass the giant Far Eastern Hardware Depot is a tiny, cozy resto with three tree stump tables within its glass entrance. The second floor was being renovated for the increasing number of customers they cater to, particularly on weekends and special couple holidays.

Eleos' Cakes and Pastries Indoor Front

Upon entering, Eleos gives us a homely vibe that's only found in Ilonggo-owned restaurants and cafes.

This table is located at the entrance.

Since the place was practically empty on a school night, we had the staff to ourselves. I asked for her to explain the menu since I wanted to taste the best they had to offer, and she summed it up pretty well. Our server was courteous and energetic at the same time.

Greek-themed menu paired with tree stump tables.

Their menus were Greek-themed with budget-friendly meals that had the god names appended to it. e.g. Zeus Delight, Poseidon Adventure.

Zeus Delight is a plate consisting of Eleos' Pasta Deliciosa (I picked their sweet Tuna Caserole), Spare Ribs (a little too fatty for my preference) and Garlic Bread.

So, it's no five-star resto. I'm sure some people will still prefer JD Roadhouse or even Manila's Banapple over it. Still, if you're the type who loves romantic ambiances and budget-friendly menu prices, Eleos is a place to add in your restos-to-visit.

If I remember correctly, Poseidon Adventure has their best-selling Beef Stroganoff. I totally forgot what this particular meal was paired with. It probably has something to do with tomato sauce. Both meals cost 169 php each.

Tiny Tidbit: After teaching us the correct pronunciation, they also shared the meaning of Eleos. The Greek word's English translation is Mercy, which is also the first name of the owner.

This Chocoholic Dream Cake cost 45 php. Not bad for its heavenly taste. It's moist, tasty, and best of all, just with the right amount of sweetness.

Eleos is located at 414 Avanceña Street, Molo, Iloilo City.

Will I dine at Eleos again? Hell, yes!

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