The Broadsheet Restaurant Melting Pot

Dearest internet,

Akin to how most of my life plays out, I didn't mean to end up here.  The 'Broadsheet Restaurant' pop up gave me the eye from across the street right before brunch which took me quite aback being one who is not usually at the receiving end of such sorts; I gave it a once over, liked what I saw, one thing led to another and I'm guiltily shoving money over the counter a couple of hours later (OH FOR LORD'S SAKE JUST HURRY AND TAKE IT BEFORE I AM SEEN). 

It's just so hard to resist a limited edition.  Where's my restraint?

I liked what it wore; quite Scandinavian if you ask me (no one is asking, no one).

It was done up beautifully for a place that will disappear with a poof on August the 2nd (2015).  I believe that there was a whole team of local designers involved in the plan of attack and it paid off quite nicely methinks.  Kinda digging the outdoor heaters inside (so naughty!) and that coupled with the foliage created the illusion of an outdoor experience without the bird poop on the furniture.

The baked goods on display are from Tivoli Road Bakery (all $5.50).  The two that caught my eye were the 'doussants' (babies of doughnuts x croissants) and the salted caramel doughnuts (tinier than the standard... which might just come in handy post main meal; read on, read on and you'll see why). 

This restaurant serves dishes selected from some of Melbourne's best which I find such an interesting and novel idea.  Whoever thought this up, GOLD STAR FOR YOU.  If this trend continued, there would be no more "Babe. where do you want to go?" "How about trying insert cafe?" "But I wanted to go to insert cafe!" "Why did you ask me then?!?".  One step towards world peace (too much of a stretch?).

Coffee by Small Batch.  Coffee art on a mocha (not mine).  

My order was 'soy mocha, stronger on the chocolate' as per the usual.  I really do thank the barista for his heavy handed chocolate sprinkle on the top (he really went to town) especially after he put in all that effort to make coffee art but... there was a teeny weenie bit of a misunderstanding (anyone else read that in an Irish accent? No? Just me?).  If you like your mocha to taste like coffee with a nod to chocolate, you'll swoon at the taste of this.  I only just tolerate the taste of unsweetened coffee which was pretty much what this was, but a few shovels of sugar into it made it right as rain.  Just be prepared you know?

Rye bread Smorrebrød with smoked salmon, cracked pepper cream cheese and devilled egg (from Filter : $18).  Technically it was equal to one piece of rye bread cut into three pieces, three small slices of smoked salmon, a few oozes of cream cheese, one egg and a few twigs of green; can't complain really as they did add salmon caviar and that stuff is the equivalent of gold.  The dish tasted good (loved the eggs and caviar) but there weren't any fireworks I guess?  Do note that you're likely to be hungry still after this dish.  That said, it'll leave you room to try out those Tivoli pastries from before which would fill your belly up quite so; perhaps it was all part of a cunning plan from the very start?

Twice baked brioche French toast with fennel poached pears and burnt caramel sorbet (from Top Paddock : $18)  It was reported to be enjoyable but not filling (it was the size of a few sticky note pads piled up on top of each other).

Baked free range eggs with tomatoes, fennel, chorizo, goat's cheese and burnt pickled onions (from Top Paddock : $20). This was substantial (only just) once again, and only one egg was served despite a definite plural suffix to think back.  Smelt pretty darned delicious to me any how and it was given a nod from the consumer.

I present to you some pictures of pot plants.

Very friendly service and welcoming!  The ambience of the place was so soothing and chilled we lingered a while and at no point did we feel rushed to leave despite the place filling up rapidly towards the end of our stay (we had to line up to pay!) and that's saying something judging how vast the place was.  Great concept but may require a little tweaking in the areas of portion size and mochas (PLEASE SIR, MORE CHOCOLATE) but no biggie.  It's open for dinner and dessert too from Wednesday to Sunday if that rocks your boat.  Don't wait too long though guise ok?

Yep, that's about it.  See you soon loves x

The Broadsheet Restaurant

166 Gertrude Street
Fitzroy 3065 

 

Taking Orders from The Lilydale General

Dearest internet,

A stork delivered an extra special package to a good friend and I've waited (because it's always about me) nine months for the masterpiece to arrive as there was no express delivery available.  My patience was stretched so thinly that if I were ordered to walk over hot coals to reach the prize I would have gladly asked "At what temperature m'am?" but kindness is my friend's strong suit and all I needed to do was take a mini road trip.  So I journeyed across the golden soil to the footholds of Lilydale with one true purpose burning in my heart as I headed for The Lilydale General.

If that was my gym up top, my body would transform all right.  By evading said gym session and heading straight for food on the bottom floor.

A La Marzocco machine churns out the daily grind.

A significant portion of their sweet selection was gluten-free or vegan which was so thoughtful.  To be honest, I've never seen so many options on a menu that cater to the alternatively diet-ed or the health conscious.

What appears to be the bar if those are bottles of '-OH'.

Blurry shot.

Due to the pram and the quantity of our party, we were gently ushered to the courtyard.  I spy with my little eye a wasp trap dear lord.  Not to worry, we only saw one during our two hour discourse.  Naturally it flew ferociously straight towards my head with appreciable determination.

I got through that alive with thanks to the brave feats of my friends ("OMG THERE'S A WASP NEXT TO YOUR HEAD!").

What a breathtaking view of 'Tint-A-Car'.

Scenery aside, it was a gorgeous winter's day and it was delightful basking in the sun.  Courtyard seating was warm and relaxed, with just enough shade to avoid sunburn; exactly what we needed.

Soy mocha.  The memo was passed on accurately and it came out stronger on the chocolate.  A solid cup right there.

Feast your eyes on the half serve of the 'Local Free Range Eggs' (scrambled) with a side of 'Ben's Local Smoked Salmon' and 'Side Chips' [$16.50].  

I was expecting slices of smoked salmon and was pleasantly surprised to find that it was in fact a well done and well executed marble filled slab with none of that Dead Sea saltiness you could float in.  It looks tiny in the photo, but it was a sizeable chunk.  On the other hand, if you had cravings for that raw fish texture you would have needed to make full use of your anger management strategies.  Those crinkle chips were hella crispy too, and the oil was fresh creating a light golden colour.  Nothing fancy, just a good chip with a sprinkle of salt.  I can eat a lot in one sitting (albeit at the pace of a sloth) but this filled me right up.  They're a generous lot judging by the mound of creamy scrambled eggs they piled onto my plate.

'Eggs... Atlantic' style [$17].  Poached eggs, Ben's flaked smoked salmon, spinach, hollandaise and sourdough toast.  Can't comment personally but a thumbs up was given.

'House Made Crumpets' [$15] (vegetarian) with caramelised fig, vanilla goat's cheese curd, roasted pistachios and coconut nectar glaze.  I was told that it wasn't particular outstanding ("Hmm, yeah, meh"), but it filled the stomach.  I'm afraid there was no way I can attest to this as goat's cheese products will not and cannot be voluntarily ingested.

'Breaky Burger' [$15].  Toasted Turkish roll, Ben's bacon, sunny side up eggs, locally made tomato relish, avocado, roquette and mayonnaise.  I can't for the life of me remember wth that side was (query early onset dementia?) but it looks like little roasted potatoes to me.  I was told that this burger was a solid favourite of my friend's partner and it was demolished in its entirety with smiles so take that as you will.

'Croque Monsieur' [$12].  Shaved local ham, cheddar cheese, Dijon bechamel and spring onion in a baked sourdough sandwich.  This looked amazing and at 12 bucks it was likely the best value option in the entire menu.  Again, a positive review from the consumer. 

In conclusion, there was attentive, humorous and very friendly service from the staff and dishes that our taste buds were satiated by.  That said, we were ravenous by the time our food arrived as there was quite a wait (over half an hour?); the place wasn't packed full but I guess there were a lot of tables occupied as it was a large space if one were to compare it to its inner city counterparts.  If you're in a rush, probably not an ideal choice on the weekend.  If you're looking for a place to chill which friends to while away an afternoon, this is it!  We took half an hour to make menu choices (girls, you hear me?) which they cheerily accommodated with positivity and patience.  When the weather's warmer, I'll be taking one of their smoothies filled with goodness (what is mesquite or lucuma? Must be one of them superfoods!) for a test drive (Choc Mint Crisp or Coco-Rudy are calling my name).

Recommended if you're in the area!  The locals certainly flock to it, and with good reason.

Yep, that's it.  See you soon loves! x

The Lilydale General
110 Beresfold Road,
Lilydale VIC 3140
http://thelilydalegeneral.com.au/

   

Pigging Out at Baba Sus!

Dearest internet,

I found myself outside Baba Sus.  Slightly befuddled as to how I got there exactly as it camouflages itself down some random side street in a very suburban part of town.  Stubbornness got me there eventually ("SEETHING SUBTERFUGE! IT WAS I!" says the driver quite indignantly) and I was rewarded with this mirage. (Except, you know, it was real.)

Strategically located next to a post box in case you want to write home about it.

See the trees in the reflection?  That's where the Baba Sus logo is, and precisely what I didn't manage to capture.  Despite that being the whole point.  I was trying desperately hard to be super casual and not... 'sus'. (See what I did there guys? What do you mean 'shut up you're being lame'?  Well sorry for breathing.  Where am I going with this??)

Guess where I chose to sit and why! (Disclaimer: no free chocolate prizes)

Just imagine what it'll be like in spring or summer.

Not only could I stare at the counter, I had a creepily perfect view of the kitchen.  Despite working under what I can only imagine to be intense time pressures, the kitchen staff appeared very much in control with determined precision in every movement.  I know this because I was doing a lot of staring.  Also I was tracking every dish that was prepared with much enthusiasm (IS THAT MINE?)  

This table was highly sought after, and I took this 'ambience' photo (who am I kidding?) while there was a war over who should claim territory somewhere on the left.  All I could hear was a lot of pompous unsolicited noise from a certain customer who decided that he and his entourage should lay claim over another gentle group, rightfully being bestowed with the legal title as they had been patiently waiting to be seated for 10 minutes.  Baba Sus' choice in waitstaff is to be highly commended as they dealt with the situation with a 'the customer is always right!' attitude despite this particular customer being plainly... not quite right.  The waitstaff were so apologetic and provided a clear explanation as to why it wasn't possible and they would be promptly seated soon, but the customer flounced off, despite their best efforts, in a cloud of unjustified huff.  Baba Sus dealt with the situation with such grace and I would go back just for the friendly positive vibes the staff give off!

Now for something completely different (insert segue-way).  This soy mocha had the right balance between chocolate and coffee, with chocolate being the dominant flavour.  That's what I specifically asked for and what was delivered with love.

*whistles* 

Love you too baby!

The Baba Sus latte.  After a friendly and much welcomed chat with the barista and a waiter (such angels!), I was told that they have their own signature Baba Sus coffee blend made by a couture coffee roaster in Bendigo... or was is Ballarat?  Maybe it was neither (my memory fails me!) but it was reportedly good, smooth and a solid choice for those who like their coffee strong (according to the drinker who, in my humble opinion, is a coffee connoisseur and inordinately discerning).

Just because we all appreciate a little latte art.

Carb-loading to start.  Feast your sparkly eyes on these beer battered chips with kaffir lime salt and sriracha aioli.  I've had a lot of chips in my life (said solemnly as my eyes stare off into the distance with nostalgic wisdom) and these rate in my top few.  They were crispy on the outside, but soft and creamy on the inside.  They used fresh oil (unlike some cafes who think they can get away with using sludge scraped off the ocean after an oil spill) which gives the chips a cleaner flavour and a golden colour.  I'm a die-hard Sriracha fan so that little bowl put a spring in my step.  Don't let the photo fool you into thinking it's a small bowl btw. No no noooo, the amount served could be a meal in itself!  I suggest one bowl to share between a couple/few peeps.

LOOK AT THAT SEXY BEAST OF A WAFFLE.  ALL THE FEELS.  RIGHT IN THE HEART.  LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT IS TRUE Y'ALL. 

You know that feeling you get when you meet a celebrity?  I had to calm myself down and fan myself for a bit.  A few lovely inquisitive customers sitting adjacent asked me sociably what it was so I was provided an opportunity to gush about it a little.  Oh, where are my manners?  Let me introduce you to my dish!  They are the exceedingly famous, justly celebrated and highly photographed Hong Kong Egg Waffles conveniently located on the breakfast menu.  I was expecting just a pretty face, but this dish is brains and beauty, with each aspect of the dish tasty in itself.  The egg waffle was soft and pillowy, akin to eating tasty clouds, and were laced with vanilla custard goodness.  I was prepared for a sour berry compete (experience has me traumatised) but was rendered breathless by its candy sweetness.  The matcha ice-cream was... how to say?  Ah yes, perfect.  I was transported straight back to Japan.  It was so good, I would've licked the bowl if I didn't practice decorum.

If you're not as willing to put yourself out there as a strong candidate for diabetes like I am, there appears to be magnificent savoury options too.  I spotted a 'Blue Mountain Wagyu Burger' and many, many bowls of 'Soba Noodles' promenading past and I had to restrain myself mentally from pulling a Gollem with his 'preciiouussss'.  I also spotted vegetarian and gluten free choices on the menu that sounded appealing so rest assured that you're covered.  See you all there!  Talk soon loves x

Baba Sus

15-17 Bardolph Street,

Glen Iris VIC 3146

http://babasus.com.au/

 

Bonjour Monsieur De Clieu!

Dearest internet,

Having opened up Pandora's Box in the last post here, I decided to succumb to the bewitchment of Fitzroy once again so I floated down in a rain of sparkles to De Clieu. 

The circle above the door clearly says 'De Clieu' in reality (as opposed to what? My imagination?) but the lighting was kinda off.

 They were able to seat us straight away and I kinda looked at them like "What? Sorry? I don't have to wait an hour for a seat at the bar AND give you my firstborn as down payment?"  I almost flung myself at the waitress in a fit of sobbing gratitude.

Notice a trend? I always sit where I can fixate on all the glorious food at the counter.

Cosy nook near the front. If I am not mistaken, you can purchase your very own French press from the back wall for all you go-getters with the extra willpower to get up earlier in the morning to make their own coffee.  I SALUTE YOU (... from the comfort of my warm bed... in my dreams).

Do not be deceived by that little area sectioned off by the grill.  It is NOT an outdoor seating area; you see that gentlemen there?  He is, in fact, only a reflection.

He was actually sitting here.  Something my evidently addled mind did not grasp until he got up and left.

This is a latte (not mine), made with Five Senses coffee.  I have always thought of myself as a highly enthusiastic bubble fan, but I was distressed to find that I change my tune when it replaces latte art.  How DARE you ruin my Instagram feed?!  (Jokes guys chill lol I'm not that insane).  However, despite being slightly under-dressed, I am told that it did taste decent.

Mocha, stronger on the chocolate.

I would say the chocolate taste was equal to the coffee, but I think I would have preferred it slightly more chocolate-y (wow, you could mistake me for a linguist with such precise descriptive terms).  Definitely not complaining though!

Alight listen up, public service announcement time.
These babies right here are the BEST soft-shell crab sliders / burgers I've ever had in a Melbourne cafe and modesty priced at $13.  For once I didn't bite into the burger, hit the crab and felt like I've licked a Himalayan salt lamp.  The salad (a mix of greens and pickles) was lightly dressed which was refreshing in-between bites of the spicy crab.  The streak of mayonnaise at the back with peanuts(?) was heaven.  Was I meant to mix it with the salad, was I meant to add it to the burger? Who know and who cares when it tastes that good c'mon.

These will fill you up, no worries.  I reckon they're the equivalent of one large burger (but with more soft-shell crab).  I believe their menu changes quite often (my my how thrilling!), so I won't note what else was available as it'll likely be redundant by the time you read this.  Nonetheless, I will delightedly report to you that they will always remain a loyal friend to vegans / vegetarians.

Yeah, that's about it.  I'll leave you with this photo because I took it and waste not want not right?  See you soon loves x

De Clieu

187 Gertrude Street,

Fitzroy VIC 3065

[No website(?) so go to Zomato for deets]