Dharma's Capitola

Meeting my brother for lunch and he suggested we cruise out to Capitola for a little Dharma's. A vegetarian place? Well, there's a first time for everything. Not sure about this "no meat" thing. Will I have to turn in my BBQ membership card?

Dharma's - Good for you, good for the world.

The three of us (daughter included) walked in and the place was packed - a good sign. You have to order at the register and then pick up your food at another counter to the right. No waitstaff keeps the prices down? We'll see.

Cool vibes inside with hanging plants and lots of sunshine from the many windows. We liked the artwork hanging on the walls. Even a cool, bubbling fountain in the front corner. We grabbed a menu and ordered.

Mike got the Indian Curry Plate ($14.95) and a vanilla milkshake ($7.50). It came with brown rice and papadam, chutney and raita (yogurt) sauce. You can also get other condiments and water at a counter in the middle of the place. We loaded up on hot sauces, wheat germ, onions and spices.

So fresh and delish, he really liked his meal. Hearty veggies and tofu all in a savory and spicy curry sauce. It was a huge portion and had some to take home. He shared the milkshake and we all thought it was great.

The kiddo went pasta (big surprise) - Pasta Con Pesto ($12.95) and was happy to see an abundant plate of noodles and four toasts. She could only eat half, so again, another take home meal was done. You can get the to-go boxes over by where you drop of your dishes. She said it was some of the best pestos she has ever had.

It also came with a green salad with homemade vinaigrette. Not spectacular, but good and fresh and it made this a value order.

I went with the potstickers ($6.50) and a bowl of their "famous" chili ($6.95) and I was also very pleased. The chili was hearty, stick-to-your-ribs kind and was huge. The stickers were okay, but kind of rubbery. The sweet plum and spicy mustard sauces were nice on the side.

As a bonus, dear readers, we came back another time that week and ate again. Here's what I got the on the second visit - the Burrito Bueno ($6.95). Filled with beans, brown rice, cheese and sour cream, this thing was gigantic! The salad again was a nice touch, but maybe chips instead next time. Their menu is huge and this is one of the best deals I think. It fills you up!

Started in 1981, Dharma's was built to last. Feeding the hungry masses with healthy, flavorful foods is what it does best. Maybe not your cheapest place in town, but if you care what goes in, you can't go wrong here.

Scores out of 10:
Food: 9
Service: n/a
Atmosphere: 8
Value for price: 7
Overall: 8