Phill Bean, Shelley

InsideWebsite: http://www.phillbean.com

When Miss Anise told me about Phill Bean, I had thought she was talking about a person, and how good ‘it’ was. Alas, only to find out shortly after that she was actually talking about a Korean eatery in the heart of Shelley.

Upon entering this evening, we found ourselves with a restaurant that was packed full of people, some taking away, some indulging in some hot soups, and others just waiting for their meal. We were lucky to have gotten one of the last two tables in the restaurant. Phew!

MenuWe were quite swiftly handed the menus, and the first impression I had was “wow, such a massive menu!” It comprises of a good number of sections, ranging from noodles, to rice and soups.

We went through the menu, and I could already spot some of the good old favourites like BiBimBap, and Kimchee&Pork Stew.

Took us a while before the owner of the place could attend to us, and had our orders taken:

  • Kimchee Pancake
  • Spicy chicken bulgogi noodles
  • Doenjang Stew (with Rice) – Stew made from soybean paste, tofu, clams, and vegetables
  • Korean rice punch

I’m always delighted with the surprises that come with the Korean side/appetiser dishes. This time, we got some fermented soy beans, kimchee and…. I wish I could remember what it was. (-.-)

Appetisers Rice Punch

The Korean rice punch was a recommendation from the owner (we had wanted to try something Korean). My first taste of this drink wasn’t too pleasant because there was a very strong aroma from the can. But as I took in more sips, I actually started liking it more and more. Interesting drink with actual rice grains in the can as well. I probably wouldn’t order again but it was a good experience nevertheless.

Kimchee Pancake

I always love a kimchee pancake. The thought of that dough mixed in with that spicy sour kimchee is just something mouthwatering to even think about! I enjoyed the pancake and the sauce that came along with it, but would have liked a spicier kimchee to be used.

Spicy Chicken Bulgogi noodles

My favourite dish of the evening was the spicy bulgogi noodles. It came out looking as spicy as it tasted, really. On first impression, there really wasn’t much taste, then it hits right at the end! Deception. I loved the fact that there was no hint of the taste fading away with each mouthful.

Donjaeng Stew

Stew enlargedThe donjaeng stew was for me the disappointment dish of the evening. I thought it was rather tasty, but I think it could have been tastier. That said, my taste buds may have been numbed out by that spicy chicken bulgogi noodles! I probably wouldn’t order it again.

We waited quite a while before getting our food served, and understandably for a packed restaurant, but I think they could definitely do better. I was then told that they do work under a tight number of staff members – after all, it is a family business. The owner is a lovely man though, very approachable, and certainly knows how to make his customers feel at home.

I would give Phill Bean another go for sure, maybe at a time when it’s not so packed. Am keen to try their bibimbap and some of that spicy stew they have on the menu!

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Rating by: Miss Egg a.k.a. S.T.

Phill Bean
Telephone: (08) 9354 7272
Address: Unit 2, 17 Tribute Street, Shelley

Phill Bean on Urbanspoon

****Haute Cuisine****

Haute Cuisine (2012) PosterThe PFEs were fortunate enough to be invited to a preview screening of French foodie film, Haute Cuisine (which means Grand cuisine), a movie based on a true story of a well-known countryside cook (Daniele Delpeuch), turned private chef for the President of France (François Mitterrand).

The private screening was held in The Jaffa Room, which is located in East Perth. Thank goodness I actually checked out where it is because if I hadn’t known better, I would have gotten real lost! The Jaffa Room is a private function/event room that you can hire, and what a lovely little venue! The little theatrette fits about 20 people very comfortably.

We were treated to some little french delights, courtesy of Francois in Leederville. There were little quiches, fruit tarts, and macarons. Coupled with a nice glass of champagne, it was a beautiful way to get the brain shifting to the French theme for the evening.

Macarons and Fruit TartsChampagne2013-04-16 17.35.13

The little treats were wonderful. Tasted great, wonderfully presented. Nothing more we could ask for!

Now onto the movie…

It was an inspiring film of a woman, who despite of being frowned upon by her male counterparts when she was brought into the Presidential home of France, made a deep and lasting impression on the President himself, all with her cooking and her keen spirit of listening.

This movie also focused on the produce that came from the country, and how resourcefulness can also lead to magnificent dishes on a plate. And the one thing that really got me drooling was the amount of truffles that were shown in the film! Simply amazing. It might make one’s jaw drop but it seems that truffle slices on a toasted buttered slice of bread is really quite normal for a snack. *whistles in innocence*

I loved the sheer determination of Hortense Laborie (played by Catherine Forte) in her fight to serve food that mattered to the President. Food that meant something to him.

Foodies who love food, and would like to feel a little inspired, this movie is definitely worth the watch. I recommend it.

Narration by: S.T. a.k.a Miss Egg

Jamie’s Italian, Perth

During the Easter long weekend, I decided to jump on the bandwagon craze and headed to the newly open Jamie’s Italian Restaurant at 140 William Street for dinner. My strategy was to go for an early dinner at 5pm! Surely there would not be that many people – too innocent a thought. There was already a queue! We waited approx 0.5hr before arriving at the front of the restaurant thinking we would be seated. Alas, that was not so. Arrival at the front of the restaurant only meant you were then able to put your name down for a table, and then there is another 1.5hrs wait! Eeks..we persevered since we were already in the city!

Oh did I mention that a lovely lady would come out with some antipasti for us customers in the queue. Nice gesture I thought but it may cause you to get hungrier!

The sky was bright when I arrived and dark when I was seated down :p

It was ilght when we arrive It was dark when we were seated!

I spied some chefs preparing black ink pasta at the front before I had to move out for the long wait! The bar area is quite small as well so no chance of seats on a crowded night!

Chefs chattingThe bar area

Not to dwell on the waiting part, let’s move on :)

The restaurant itself is nice! Jazzed up and quite modern looking with a rustic feel. I like! The only thing I thought that stood out of place was the chandelier in the middle of the room.

Wines on displayKitchen counterAnother view of the restaurantHuge restaurant

For drinks, we had:

  • Lemon, Lime & Bitters ($5)
  • Holy Espresso ($16) – Tia Maria, hazelnut liquer & amaretto with double espresso shot
  • Vanilla & Lemon Martini ($15.50) – Vodka infused with vanilla syrup & fresh lemon

LLBHoly EspressoVanilla & Lemon Martini

The Holy Espresso was delicious. It was strong and not too sweet, just how I like it. This may be my favorite cocktail from now! The Vanilla & Lemon Martini was sweet but refreshing with generous amount of lemon juice. The prices were reasonable compared to surrounding bars! Big tick!

Shared entrees of:

  • Pumpkin and smoked mozzarella nachos ($7) – crispy fried and served with fiery arrabbiata sacue. This was the least favorite entree at the table but it was my favorite! I like how they are mini raviolis rather than the usual corn chips (although the description did give it away). The sauce is very tasty! Not a smudge left after we finish.

Pumpkin&Mozarella Nachos

  • Crispy stuffed risotto balls ($6.50) – smoked mozzarella & porcini arancini. This was good  and tasty too! I wonder where they buy the porcini? Been trying to find some for my risotto but no success so far. The sauce that came with the balls was awesome too! Love!

Risotto balls

  • Baked Mushrooms ($14.50) – swiss browns with crispy music bread & smoked buffalo mozzarella. This would have been a great dish had it not been so so salty! It went well with the bread though, otherwise it would have been hard to eat by itself.

Baked Mushrooms

And a note regarding the bread – I was told by a friend that I have to ask for the bread which are complimentary, but normally not served unless asked. Really? This proved to be true as no bread came until I asked for them. Strange isn’t it. But yes, ask and you shall receive! They are amazing!

Can I please have some bread?

One good thing I like about the mains is a choice of small or normal size. We ordered the the small portion so that we can fit dessert in later on! Just a note that we tried to order three of the pasta on the menu but they were sold out. Must be great dishes! They were the Seafood Bucatini, Spaghetti Vongole and Jool’s Favourite Sicilian Tuna Fusilli. Must go back for them next time!

  • Sausage Parpadelle ($12 – small) – slow braised fennel sausage ragu with red wine, parmesan & crunchy, herby breadcrumbs. Another salty dish. Like the odd shapes parpadelle but the sauce was too salty to enjoy.

Sausage parpadelle

  • Black Angel Spaghetti ($14 – small) – squid ink pasta, scallops, garlic, chilli, anchovies, wine & capers. This was my order, the sauce was light and flavorsome! The only complain about this dish was the amount of scallops in there (scallops were sliced pieces instead of whole). I guess one can’t complain at this price. 

Squid ink pasta with scallops

  • Prawn Linguine ($16 – small) – pan fried garlicky prawns served with tomatoes, chilli, rocket & fennel. I had a small taste and found that the rocket and fennel were overpowering but I got use to the taste. It was nice!

Prawn Linguine

  • Blue Swimmer Crab Risotto ($16 – small) – acquerello rice topped with lemony crab, samphire & chilli. This was a great dish too and the chilli packed a punch! Comment was it got slightly salty at the end.

Crab Risotto

We shared desserts and had the following based on recommendation by the staff:

  • Ji Warm Brownie ($9) – chocolate, raspberry & amaretto brownie with vanilla ice cream. This is one of the more popular dessert item according to the staff. I’m normally not a fan of dessert brownie so can’t comment.  My friend thought it was dry. I wish there was more ice cream!

Choc Brownie

  • Tutti Frutti Lemon Meringue Pie ($8.50) with limoncello & crunchy pistachio brittle. This was my favorite out of the three. I like the the crunchy base. The pie itself was a bit sweet for me, it would have been better with stronger lemon flavor. This is another popular item on the menu

Lemon Meringue Pie

  • Sour Cherry Bakewell ($8) – tart berries & sweet almond filling, served with sour cream. This was my choice and the least favorite at the table. I must agree, the filling was a bit doughy and there was no lift in taste. 

Sour Cherry Bakewell

Overall it was a great dining experience despite the wait! One thing I noticed was how reasonably priced the dishes are. No dishes are over $30! And the cocktails are definitely the cheapest around the area!

Service was fantastic and the food came out quickly once you place your order. I would definitely be back again during non peak dining times and after the hype has die down a bit. :)

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Rating by: N.L.
Jamie's Italian on Urbanspoon

Santi’s, Nedlands

Adding to an already impressive list of cafes and restaurants, Santi’s is situated at the hospital end of the infamous Hampden Road in Nedlands. Being a favourite haunt of mine when I was in university, I always return to this area with fond memories.

My first visit to Santi’s was not documented with photos, so this post is about my second visit, which is consistent with the first.

Meeting some colleagues and my soul mate MJ for brekkie, I made sure I booked a table earlier in the week so that we could secure a spot without too much hassle. To my surprise, I don’t think the lady actually took my booking down because the waitress appeared confused when I told them of my reservation upon arrival. Nevertheless, they found a spot quick enough and SJ, MJ, their little angel SJr and myself were comfortable seated and deliberated the simple menu.

Once BM arrived, it wasn’t long before we all went up to order. We had the following:

  • Long Black
  • Latte
  • Strawberry Milkshake
  • Big Breakfasts
  • Poached eggs on toast with side of mushroom
  • Scrambled eggs on toast (unbuttered)

The menu spanned the typical breakfast choices. Having been here before with a good experience to speak of, I had a benchmark that I hoped to match with this visit.

Long Black

I had taken a turn to drinking long black’s these days due to my slight lactose intolerance, and I must say it is becoming really enjoyable! This was my first long black, and I have to say it created a fairly good impression. The beans weren’t burnt, and whilst there wasn’t any real special flavour to speak of, the fact that it was enjoyable for a first cup of long black was good enough for me.

The strawberry milkshake was enjoyed by SJ and his little angel SJr (of course SJr had the first sip!).

Big Brekkie #1

Beans featured with Scrambled eggsThe big breakfasts were typical, with a tinge of Santi’s own style with homemade beans and chutney on the side. The beans were a massive favourite, and was really well received by SJ and BM who were the consumers of the biggie brekkie.

The scrambled eggs were ordered by MJ, who said that it was lovely, but a tad on the rich side. There was a generous serve of eggs with the toast. She enjoyed it.

Scrambled Eggs on Toast

My poached eggs were really well cooked with the runny yolk oozing out of its casing. The mushroom was plump, and juicy. An enjoyable brekkie.

Poached Eggs with Mushrooms

The service at Santi’s was brilliant, and made for the good experience even better. Overall, a good honest serve of breakfast with hearty service… Santi’s is definitely a place I will be back for some more precious moments along Hampden Road!

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Rating by: S.T. a.k.a. Miss Egg

Santi’s
Telephone: (08) 9386 2020
Address: Corner Monash Avenue and Hampden Road, Nedlands

Santi's on Urbanspoon

Mr Munchies Sushi, Mount Lawley

Mr Munchies SushiIn recent months, Mr Munchies Sushi had become the unassuming rising star of the sushi world in Perth. I first had a taste of it when a friend took away the Sushi Platter for dinner one night and I found that I really liked them! I’d been back for the sushi ever since! I especially like the Mango Sushi Roll.

Earlier this month, I went to “Danny Bhoy” showing in Astor Theatre nearby and decided to introduce the place to some of my friends. They ended up loving the place too. (By the way if you like comedy, you have to check out Danny Bhoy – very funny guy and much less swearing compared to Russell Peters).

The place was packed when we arrived and the four of us had to squeeze into a table for two. Note that the restaurant is quite small so tables get snap up quickly during peak dinner time!

Inside the restaurant

I wanted to try a different drink so I had the Awaken Aloe Vera with Wheat Grass.  Took some getting use to.

DrinksFor entree, we had:

  • Japanese Seaweed Salad ($5.50)
  • Japanese Squid Salad ($5.50)
  • Agedashi Tofu ($8.50) – lightly coated and fried in a tempura sauce, this was very nice!

Seaweed SaladSquid SaladAgedashi Tofu

For sushi:

  • Mango Chicken Roll ($9.50 small 4 pieces)
  • Crunchy Spider Roll ($9 small 4 pieces)
  • Create Your Own Sushi – Eel (large 8 pieces)

Mango Chicken SushiThe Mango Chicken Roll is a seasonal sushi with chicken and prawn fritters topped with coriander, sweet chilli sauce and diced mango. I never fail to order this when I eat at Mr Muchies Sushi. I love the crunchiness of the chicken and prawn pieces combined with the thai inspired flavors of the topping.

Crunchy Spider Roll

The Crunchy Spider Roll contains deep fried soft shell crab, iceberg lettuce, cucumber topped with white sesame sauce and shallots. This was on the average side, I could not really taste the soft shell crab.

Create Your Own - Eel

My friend put together this Create Your Own Sushi, with eel, tamago topped with tobiko and chili mayonnaise sauce. It turned out quite tasty but nothing beats the Mango Chicken Roll for me. :)

There are many more other special Sushi Rolls on offer in Mr Munchies Sushi, I found the chef to be very creative and innovative in his sushi creations. I also love the Create Your Own Sushi or Salad concept.  Will definitely be back again.

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Rating by: N.L.

Mr. Munchies Sushi on Urbanspoon

***Miss L’s Melbourne Extravaganza Bonus Ed***

Bonus round in Melbourne.  Loving the food and shopping!

For Part 3 of this post, click here ! :)

Pei Modern

Website: http://www.peimodern.com.au/

1My first night of arrival in Melbourne and we headed to Pei Modern for dinner. Pei Modern was the winner of the Gourmet Traveller Maitre d of the Year so we were expecting some great service here. They did not disappoint, although  there was an initial hiccup with our drinks. We sat at the bar whilst waiting for our table and ordered a glass of NV Andre Clouet Rose Champagne ($21) each. I was happily sipping and chatting away until my friend said, “hmm I think our drink is supposed to be sparkling but why is it flat?” We enquired and was told that they had given us the wrong drink! What the?? Haha they were immediately changed! Much better!

The wrong drink!The correct drink!

The restaurant…

The frontAt the barOutdoor areaInside the restaurant  

For dinner we had:

  • Complimentary Bread
  • Organic Mussels & Fino ($18.50)

Complimentary bread Organic Mussels Mussels close up!

Bread came wrapped in a napkin. This is the second time that I have experienced such casualness in serving bread. The first was in a French restaurant in the Venetian Hotel in Vegas where the waiter just left the bread on the table (straight from basket to table top!). At least this was more hygienic! The bread was soft in the middle and crusty on the outside. Excellent! It went well with the Mussels that were plump and juicy in the fino sauce.

  • Kingfish, Artichokes & Wet Walnuts ($35)
  • Duck Breast, Boudin Noir & Clementine ($34)
  • Charred Beets, Sweet & Sour ($9)

Kingfish artichokeDuck BreastCharred Beets, sweet and sour

I had the Kingfish and it was tender and melted in the mouth. I love the crunchy walnuts on it too – great combination. The Charred Beets were excellent too, chunky pieces with a unique sweet and sour sauce. I have not had this combination of flavours before. Good to try something different.

The waiter was pretty smooth with his upselling skill and convinced us to order some wine to go with our meal even though we had told him we were going to a bar after and did not want to drink too much at dinner. We had the Chateau D’Esclans ‘Whispering Angel’ Grenache ($15). Very smooth wine and an awesome name!

Whispering Angel!

For dessert, I had the Caramelised Tomato, Stuffed with Twelve Flavours, Star Anise Ice Cream ($17) and my friend had the White Chocolate Ganache Mandarin & Sorrel Sorbet ($15). My dessert sounded special but didn’t taste the same. The twelve flavors were full of spices and too rich for my liking and the star anise ice cream had a heavy taste. A creative dish though. I liked my friend’s dessert, it was refreshing.

White Choc Ganache!Caramelised tomato with start anise ice cream

Overall it was a great experience in a chic restaurant! We were also admiring the hostess casual but funky dress sense.

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Pei Modern on Urbanspoon

Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar

Pellegrini'sWe were recommended this place by a guy sitting next to us on the plane.  He told us that this cafe had been around for ages and very much worth a visit!  Simple on the outside, old fashioned on the inside, there were no tables/chairs like your usual cafe but stools and a long bar! We propped ourselves on one end and waited for someone to serve us. Inside the espresso barWe waited and waited but no one came. I had to call out to a lady who was busy doing the stock take to get us a menu. “We have no menu” was the reply…(?????) This should be the sign for us to walk out but we persevered and instead asked what was on offer. “Just cheese on toast”. Hmm I didn’t come all the way from Perth to have some cheese on toast?? but my obliging friend agreed. Eeks! I asked whether there was anything else besides that, she said “Yes, ham and cheese on toast!” Sigh, I reluctantly said ok.

The toasts….get ready for the jaw drop…in shock! Haha

Cheese on ToastHam Cheese on ToastLayers of ham!

The Ham and Cheese Toast was layered with 5 slices of ham and a thick covering of cheese!! I felt sick eating it. Needless to say I couldn’t finish it. I felt a bit rude leaving half my dish on the plate but I really couldn’t take another bite!

Remind me not to trust a random stranger’s recommendation on the plane next time! :P  

On another note the only saving grace was the coffee.  My Long Mac gave me a big jolt to the system!

Long Mac and Cafe Latte

Rating:  1 out of 5 stars

Pellegrini's Espresso Bar on Urbanspoon

Pappa Rich

Website: http://papparich.net.au

I was so excited to spy a Pappa Rich whilst shopping in Chadstone. I had to drag my friend away from Zara to have a late lunch there. Clothes vs food, for me it was the food, for her clothes! Haha

PappaRichInside the restaurant

The place was packed even though it was quite late in the afternoon. I was still enthused even though we had to wait for a table, there were so much food on offer!! I decided on the Dry Egg Noodle with Curry Chicken ($10.90) and Bean  Sprouts on the side ($2.50) for my lunch.  The egg noodles had a nice bite to it and I loved the taste of the rich curry gravy with the noodles!

Dry Noodle with Chicken Curry Beansprouts

My friend ordered the Biryani Rice with Curry Chicken & Sambal Prawns ($11.90) with a Teh C Special ($3.90). I had the Pappa Cham (coffee + milk tea) ($3.50).  The Pappa Cham was awesome! I wish they sell them here in Perth! Please open one in Perth!!

Briyani Rice with Chicken Curry and Sambal Prawns  Teh C SpecialPappa Cham

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars

PappaRich Chadstone on Urbanspoon

Gingerboy

Website: http://www.gingerboy.com.au

I met up with a close friend from Perth who was incidentally in Melbourne as well on the same weekend. We went out for dinner at Gingerboy, highly recommended by her sister who was staying in Melbourne. As there was a big group of us, we had to order the banquet menu which was $80 each with lots of food to share! Very much worth it! You can pick the dishes from the Snacks and Street Food, Shared Dishes, sides and sweets.

For drinks, I decided to have this unusual cocktail I spied across the room. It was called the Thai Moon ($22) with coriander, ginger and lemongrass, sweetened with gula Melaka and mixed with house made chilli vodka. Wow it was hot alright, as in spicy hot! Very suited to the Asian fusion feel of the place.

Thai Moon Cocktail

The food…comments only on the favourites :)

  • Son in law eggs, chilli jam and asian herbs ($13.50 for 3 pieces) – one of the best eggs I have eaten! They melted in your mouth!

Son in law eggsInside of the son in law eggs

  • Crispy chilli salt cuttlefish ($16)
  • Spiced duck and pork san choy bow ($18 for 3 pieces) – this was a favourite!

Crispy chilli salt cuttlefishSpiced duck&pork san choy bow

  •  Pork and garlic chive dumplings ($15 for 3 pieces)
  • Grilled lamb in la lot leaves ($15 for 3 pieces) – this was served with sour chilli vinegar, was meaty but tender

Pork&garlic chive dumplingsGrilled lamb in a lot leaves

  • Roasted hapuka with bandit sauce, zucchini fritters, fennel and citrus salad ($39)
  • Grain fed wagyu striploin with black pepper sauce and kim chi ($47.50) – another delicious meaty dish

Roasted HapukaWagyu striploin

  • Fried whole baby snapper with hot and sour salad, coriander and mint relish ($37) – this is one of my absolute favourite! I love the multiple flavours that came with the dish, the hot, sour and seafood freshness. Went really well with the steamed rice.

Fried whole baby snapperHalf eaten snapper

  • Red duck leg curry with shallots, thai basil and coconut cream ($38.50) – another favourite, the thick and creamy sauce with duck! Perfect combination!
  • Red braised pork belly with Szechuan spiced pineapple relish, pickled papaya ($37.50) – the guys loved this dish. I love the fatty layer – an indulgence!
  • Side of crispy fried sweet corn cakes ($8.50)

Red duck leg curry Red braised pork belly Crispy fried sweet corn cakes

Dessert was a selection of their popular sweets presented as a share plate.  There was the fruit salad, toasted coconut tofu cheesecake (wow!), some sort of sweet dumpling wrap with sorbet and black glutinous rice dessert with ice cream.  As it was so noisy, we had to ask three different staff to repeat what was in front of us and we still couldn’t hear perfectly!

Share Plate Fruit Salad Tofu Cheesecake Black Glutinous Rice / Dumpling case

With the variety of dishes in the banquet menu, I thought it was well worth the $80 paid.  Delicious food with beautiful ambiance (except the noise at the end when it got really busy)!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Gingerboy on Urbanspoon

The Emerald Peacock

Website: http://www.theemeraldpeacock.com/

Next stop was a bar in the city for a quick drink before heading to Crown. We ended up at this bar as one of the guy in our group knew the owner of this place. Very chic decor!

Emerald Peacock Pretty wallpaper!

We had the Madame Blush ($30 for big cocks) – labelled as elegant and sexy! Oooo! Chambord, strawberries, fresh mint, Gammay Blanc chardonnay & lemon juice. It was very yummy, I had to stop myself from drinking too much as it didn’t taste strong at all, but I know the after effects of too much alcohol in one go! Great bar!

Madame Blush cocktail

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The Emerald Peacock on Urbanspoon

Crown Caffe Corso

My friend’s hubby got a bit tipsy (I think from the Madame Blush at The Emerald Peacock) so we wanted to find a place with coffee for him to sober up. All the places in Crown was packed! We couldn’t find seats anywhere except for this cafe. I decided to have my usual Long Mac and some macarons and tart. The staff was very rude when taking my order. Totally ruined my mood!

Latte Cappucino Long Mac Macarons Citrus Tart Choc Cake

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Cafe Corso on Urbanspoon

Hardware Societe

Back for some breakfast goodness at Hardware Societe. A long wait (more than 1/2 hour) but worth it!  We had the two specials of the day – the Tuna Nicoise Salad with Poached Eggs and Cherry Brioche topped with Meringue.  Wow the Brioche with the berry compote and cream was one of the best “dessert” breakfast I’d! I absolutely loved it! The food here never fails!

Tuna Nicoise Salad with poached eggCherry Brioche

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The Hardware Societe on Urbanspoon

Cafe Andiamo

Website: http://www.cafeandiamo.com.au/

We only had a few hours left before heading to the airport so we stopped by a random Italian cafe for lunch. It was not very flash.  Felt like I wasted stomach space! We had the Parpadelle Arabiatta ($17.90) and a Warm Chicken Salad ($17.80) to share.

Cafe Andiamo Inside the cafeParpadelle ArabiattaWarm Chicken Salad 

The Parpadelle Arabiatta came with thick pasta ribbons with salami, onion, capsicum, garlic, chilli and pomodoro sauce. Very average! It was the same with the Chicken Salad of mixed salad, cucumber, Spanish onion, roasted capsicum, sundried tomato with honey mustard dressing. Should have researched before eating here!

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Café Andiamo on Urbanspoon

Little Cupcakes

Not wanting to end the trip with an average lunch, I popped by this cute little cupcake place for dessert.  Loved the cuteness of this place! My Long Mac came with a side of warm bottled milk (aww!) and I managed to fit a Lemon and Devil’s Dark Choc cupcakes to my very happy stomach! Cool place!

Little Cupcake Cute table setting Glass cabinet Long Mac Lemon & Devil's Dark Choc Cupcake

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

 

Little Cupcakes on Urbanspoon

It’s a byebye to Melbourne for now. Awesome in and out weekend trip. Hope I get to visit you again in the near future :)

 

Gusto Food, South Perth

Gusto Food!Gusto Food is located on Angelo Street in South Perth where a few nice cafes (Secret Garden, Halo Espresso, Globe etc) congregate. I first heard of this place when a friend posted up some amazing looking breakfast dishes on her facebook page. “You must go try it”, she said – OK, off I went one Saturday morning with my sister.

It was early and the place was already jam packed! We waited 10 minutes or so for a table which was quite quick. I had a hard time choosing what to order as there were so many dishes I wanted to try! Just a note that order is placed and paid upfront at the counter.

CounterYummy ready made food in the cabinet

For drinks, we had:

  • Affogato ($4.60) – strong and creamy
  • Orange juice ($4) – this was 100% OJ, freshly pressed!    

Affogato100& OJ

I decided to order the House Made crumpets with pear & berries, peanut gravel and yoghurt ($14.50). I normally do not like to order something sweet for breakfast, well except for the one time at Hardware Societe in Melbourne, but the food there is almost on a different level. Anyways I thought I’ll be different this time….and it was the best choice I made!

The Crumpets were delicious! They were light and they were fluffy, but the most amazing component of this dish is the peanut gravel!  It brought back childhood memories of a Malaysian peanut snack that I loved. The combination of the sweet pear & berries, earthy peanut and sourish yoghurt on the crumpet made it one tastyyy plate! It surpassed the praises I had for the one at Hardware Societe. Go Gusto!

House Made Crumpets!

My sister ordered the Potato hot cake with poached eggs, oak smoked salmon, avocado salsa and hollandaise sauce ($19.50). This dish was amazing to look at. It was packed, with two poached eggs, a layer of smoked salmon on top of a bed of salad and potato cake. I had a taste and the avocado salsa on the side stood out the most for me – very generous dish!

Potato Hot Cake

Service was good with friendly smiles and attentive staff even though they were so busy. This has now become one of my favourite place for breakfast – I still need to check out the Cinnamon French Toast with the bacon, the banana, maple berry compote and honeycomb! That looked amazing!

Rating:  4.5 out of 5 stars

Rating by: N.L.

Gusto Food
Telephone: 9367 3512
Address: 86 Angelon Street, South Perth
Gusto Food on Urbanspoon