Cabacoa is a restaurant specializing in street food from the Dominican Republic.

Owner, Vladimir Vasquez spent 20 years working in retail before deciding to open his own restaurant in Corso Italia. Cabacoa began as a meal prep business. 

"It actually started in my kitchen, serving coworkers where I used to work," says Vasquez. At his previous job, many coworkers would order food from Vasquez, which he prepared from home. 

It was here that Vasquez honed in his street food focus, based on fan favourites of customers. 

The first physical location was opened in June on St. Clair Ave West. Vasquez explains the restaurant's name derives from the combination of two words: cabana and Jarabacoa. The latter is a small town in the central region of the Dominican Republic.

The simple black St. Clair West storefront is unassuming. Inside, the decor is clean and minimalist. This gives the interior a relaxing feel, like a cabana. 

At the back of the restaurant is a bar, where cocktails such as Mango Margaritas ($16) and Jarabacoa Sunsets ($10) are served up.

Cabacoa's menu has an emphasis on comfort food—from burgers, to tacos, to empanadas. "There's not a lot of Dominican restaurants in Toronto. We focus more on street food, while other Dominican restaurants are more traditional, homestyle food," explains Vasquez. 

The first dish I tried was the Pollo Empanadas ($14), which were exactly what I wanted them to be. The pastry was flaky and crispy, the chicken filling had some spice and the chipotle mayo on the side was tasty. 

Next I tried a couple appetizers. The Bullito de Yucca ($10) are another item where you can't go wrong. The savoury fried cassava balls are stuffed with melted cheese and are difficult to imagine anyone not liking. 
The next appetizer I tried were the Tostones Rellenos ($12). The fried plantain cups, loaded with guacamole, sautéed shrimp and drenched in cilantro-lime sauce, are light, summery and delicious. The main course I tried was the Chicharron Clasico ($19). The pork belly was savoury and juicy. The crispy tostones (fried plantain slices) were a nice snack and the salad on the side was refreshing. Of course, the only way to finish off your meal is with a beloved dessert in Latin America: flan ($10)! 

Cabacoa's unique blend of Dominican cuisine with comfort food is definitely worth trying. Make sure to go check out their first in-person location. 

Cabacoa is located at 1157 St Clair Ave W.