Hidden behind a white fence and plenty of greenery, – Bogotá’s latest bakery-cum-cafe – has all the furnishings to make you feel at home.
Seasoning the open space with the friendly aromas of freshly baked ‘cheese popovers’, Doméstica’s oven is placed full centre, while a bursting book shelf, with a mix of both Spanish and English titles, divides one wall in the living room, inviting guests to exchange their favourites, or to simply stay awhile. A stroll past a counter of pastries, cakes, and quiches leads customers to the backyard – with its own fishpond, just without the fish. So, a pond. In what perhaps feels more like a casual visit to your friend’s house, guests can eat amongst the low hanging trees, papayas, and herb garden.
While the morning specials of cinnamon rolls, chocolate cookies and a salmon and tarragon cake were appealing, I opted for a dish from the breakfast menu – huevos en cocotte.
The baked eggs, served in an oversized ramekin, did not disappoint. Breaking into the cheese crusted outer layer with my fork, I discovered the perfect (albeit gooey) mix of eggs, cheese, tomato and basil. The fried sourdough was an excellent dipping accompaniment.
I could have easily stayed for lunch and dessert as well. With only one lunch dish each day, plates rotate from phad thai and Colombian fish soup to parmesan crusted eggplant and curry. A picture of the deconstructed bandeja paisa looked tasty too. I was disappointed I couldn’t try the Earl Grey ice cream or ginger cookies (this Australian misses her ginger nuts). Sufficient reason to return.
Owner Dominique Lemoine and some freshly bakes buns. Photos: Doméstica
Owner Dominique Lemoine’s blend of cultures and interests is certainly not lost on the menu, or the café, as she explains: “Although both my parents are Colombian, my father’s family was French. Growing up in Colombia meant one night we would have bandeja paisa and the next, beef bourguignon!”
Lemoine completed a Master’s in gastronomy at Bogotá’s branch of Argentine cooking school, Mariano Moreno. Shortly after, she moved to New York, where she worked as a writer for food and travel magazine, Saveur.
Overall, Doméstica is good for working, catching up with friends, family or work colleagues or waiting for clean laundry (a lavanderia is conveniently located next door).
Keep an eye out on their Facebook page too. Doméstica plays host to a variety of different monthly events. The last few include a knitting workshop, a terrarium making class and a buyer’s picnic. Concerts are sometimes held on an elevated stone stage in the garden, illuminated by light bulbs dangling in the trees.
Doméstica is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8.30am – 8pm for breakfast, lunch and light dinner. A selection of breads are also available to go.
Breakfast ranges from $3,000 – $18,000. An assortment of sweet and savoury treats range from $2,000 – $10,000. The ‘lunch of the day’ costs $17,000 and you can grab a salad for $15,000. Breads range from $9,000 – $11,000.
Address: Carrera 6 #56-35
Food: 4.5/5
Service: 4/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Value for money: 4/5
By Maddie Elder