As the Village People said…. “Go West”…. And it seems I have followed that popular instruction well of late across a number of great breakfast venues just west of the city. So far so good, so happy to keep coming!

This time another one that I have had a lot of people suggest to me. Plant 13. It is an historic site where from over a century ago workers of the old Clipsal company would gather for a drink and due to superstition there was never a plant 13 (only 1-12 & 14-18) so this meeting site nearby became aptly known as that. Cute story!

The owner’s offering includes locally sought produce, with some very close to home… vegetables grown out the back, smallgoods produced in-house and bread baked onsite too.

On my arrival I can see it is bustling already with the car park full but street parking still available. Heading in we nab the last non-booked table – so they do take bookings which is rare, but handy. Design follows the industrial vintage modern theme which works well with the Bowden development surrounding every part of this venue. It has a ’nice’ ambiance but lacks a little bit of warmth and character in my opinion. There is a cute outside area which is pleasant, although you are just looking at temporary fencing and development, I wouldn’t call it scenic at any stretch.

The menu is really interesting covering brunch/lunch items; made up of lots of combinations beyond ‘standard brekky’ which is great to see and makes choosing hard. It does seem to have a North American influence across pancakes with maple syrup & bacon, buttermilk biscuits with eggs & bacon and even spare ribs. The ones that catch my eye are baked eggs, triple cheese toasted sandwich with jalapenos & pork buns, what to choose?! The prices are really reasonable from just $10 to $20 for the “full brekky” which I see coming out and is a feast (hash browns look amazing) but too much volume for me this morning. The other bonus (for some) is they have a comprehensive kids menu which is great for anyone with little tackers.

We opt for the baked eggs with tomato, mushroom, bacon and sourdough and the buttermilk biscuits filled with smoked bacon, relish and egg (a favourite of my dining partner from her latest Canadian trip) along with an iced chocolate and cloudy apple juice.

Drinks are out in reasonable time and well well well – another serve in a jar… not sure about this anymore! Move on people please. Everything tastes good. Belgium iced chocolate especially – yum. I do notice later, juices coming out better garnished with fruit on the side. A problem with consistency in presentation it seems and all the staff did see me taking plenty of photos before we ordered – blogger blind maybe?

All the food coming out does look magnificent though, which only teases us on how long we are waiting for our food. The onion rings going past look really good and we cheekily add this to our order late which they happily tack on for us.

Once it all finally arrives it looks pretty specky and I am excited. We dig in and then in sycronisation both look up at each other not as excited by the taste as our eyes were on arrival, but keep going in the hope it will improve. My baked eggs aren’t that great and unfortunately don’t get any better… the eggs are overcooked to the point where the whole top layer is hard and rubbery and only the below surface portion really edible (if you like hard eggs that is). I rummage through for some bacon and find some only to then realize it is basically a huge chunk of fat. Search some more and find a piece half fat and half meat – my groomed of fat mouthful tastes great, the smokiness is really dominant and it is delicious. The few other pieces in the dish are also predominantly gristle and put me off continuing – and I LOVE bacon. The tomato ‘sea’ around everything is tasty though and ends up being a great dip for my yummy, but jaw breakingly crunchy, bread and so I end up with a tomato toast breakfast really.

My friend’s biscuit with eggs and bacon looks good. Bacon a little leaner thankfully and really nice flavor (again the smokiness is the trademark), egg cooked a little too much maybe but passable, however the biscuit (arguably the proposed hero of the dish) is so dry. One side is good covered in relish which desperately draws in as much moisture as it can to be edible but the top gets left as it is not appetising on its own.

The winner is the late call onion rings, greasy but divine and the dipping sauce is yummo! We’re both glad for the tummy saving addition that at least hit some of the spot left wanting.

So with plates not empty we call a finish to our breakfast and try to find the positives. The menu does look great as a compilation, it isn’t overly expensive, the staff were friendly, there was table service and there is a buzz across a full café in this cool area. The negatives, it took too long to come out and plain and simple it didn’t deliver as it should have. You almost feel a little more cheated because it looked so much better than it actually tasted too.

So, the west has hit a hurdle it seems. A pity. I would still be interested to come back and give a ‘standard’ breakfast of bacon and eggs a go or a pork bun for lunch sometime. However I think they need to step it up if they want to compete with their neighbours like Loose Caboose or Queen Street Café as they cream this place in both food AND atmosphere currently. Word on the street is that people are having either a great or very average time at Plant 13 which isn’t a good sign. The best places out there are consistently good which these guys will need to find if they want to play with the big boys, especially out this way. I really hope they do as they have the signs that they could be great, it just needs a bit more attention.

Plant 13
18 Park Terrace, Bowden, Adelaide, South Australia
http://www.plant13.com.au

Food: 6/10
Service: 7/10
Vibe: 7/10
Cost: $+

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There is no doubt I have a love affair with burgers… ever since my visit to the “US of A” five years ago I realised just how much I love a good burger and had a new definition of what ‘good’ actually was. The fact is that the seemingly simple burger can in reality be amazingly divine or devastatingly average.

So this post is one I am unashamedly excited about. Not just because of my affection for the old meat patty and bun but also because I have been itching to see what some old high school mates have done with the recent opening of a city Fancy Burgers store. In full disclosure I am already a fan of Fancy Burgers (original Blackwood shop style) but if anything, I know I will be extra picky on if they have been able to step it up a notch with this city location.

Today a weekday lunch and an escape from the office has been organized and as we head down the seemingly quiet Synagogue Place off Rundle Street I am impressed at the external fit out of this cool little joint which is perfectly framed by urban buildings towering around it.

Pleased to see Justin’s friendly face and founder George flipping burgers out the back I already feel at home and we grab a menu and are no doubt spoilt for choice across 15+ beef, chicken, lamb and vego burgers and even steak sandwiches too with an average price of about $12. Justin’s reco is “The Legend” a lamb patty with a field mushroom, Woodside goats cheese & other goodies (but it is big apparently). However I can’t go past the “Holy Smokes”. My dining mate gets tempted by the “Sunrise Surprise” due to the avocado inclusion but is wary of the pineapple in the combo but decides to give it a go – this trip is all about testing. Seasoned chips on the side (of course!) and one of George’s homemade sauces are a non-negotiable staple. The other interesting thing is that they only offer wholemeal rolls now – fine by me. As always the full menu is very much about fresh, high quality local produce in diverse yummy combinations and with amazing store-made sauces.

After we order there follows a late lunch rush and a line appears almost all the way to the door – wow – it seems that despite this relatively new venue being down a quiet dead end street, word has most definitely got around that this is the place to be. The open kitchen in full customer view seems every bit capable to step it up a notch, barely breaking a sweat, and the burgers are streaming out to all the punters with open arms (and mouths).

While we wait I take a look around and the fit-out it really snazzy. Unique, quirky, vibrant but definitely calculated. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into every element and I am super impressed. I love the ‘pods’ down the side which are distinctively like the oval shelter sheds I recall hanging out in with these guys at school – but these ones are decked out, each with an individual style. The artistic checkerboard floor and walls full of frames is my favourite. Street art and retro 50’s illustrations fill any gaps around the place and it is cool. Very cool!

Burgers are out in the blink of an eye, which is great as since I read the menu I have been incredibly hungry. Full, juicy and layered to perfection we dig in and my shoulders relax as it lives up to every expectation. Phew! Loving the combo of an awesome patty, layers of roasted peppers, salad, cheese and the moist-maker layers of smoked chilli mayo and BBQ relish… it has an undertone of heat that is perfect and lingering while letting all the other elements still play their part. One of the best things is the roll, even wholemeal, it isn’t too much bread (common issue with burgers), it is still soft and you wouldn’t even really know it is wholemeal.

I get to try the “Sunrise Surprise” as well and it is great. Not being a huge fan of pineapple on pizza I am not sure on this inclusion either but the ‘surprise’ for me is that it really works in this combo and ironically suits this 30-degree summery day we are enjoying. Chips are plank style, crunchy, seasoned perfectly and the sauces (dips) awesome as always. Smoked Chilli Mayo is my favourite.

A benefit today of sitting on the communal ‘old door – come table’ out the front is our new ‘dining friends’ get some other menu offerings that I get to cheekily inspect – the vego “Farmers Market” burger is an impressive stack full of veg favs and goats cheese and we also see two mini “Moo Moos” (salad optional) come to the table as well. I am thinking these are great cheeseburger substitutes but SOOOO much better in every respect than anything you will find at maccas. These customers are also really impressed with their lunch and are ‘cleverly’ washing it down with a beer. That would be nice if work wasn’t to follow.

It has been a really good lunch and lived up to every expectation on the food front, it is as good as any other burger I have had in a very long time. What has really impressed me today has been the service, which is all really efficient and super friendly, and then the set-up and surrounds is the perfect cherry on top. Hats off to these boys for getting it all so right and the result is a fantastic vibe that only enhances the whole experience, no wonder there are lines to the door.

One of my burger favourites and a great benchmark is “Grill’d” in Melbourne that ticks all the boxes for me, which has today been surpassed by Fancy Burgers and that is no mean feat. As a result, I have a feeling I am going to be calling in pretty regularly from now on and am genuinely excited at what new burger variant I will try next – there certainly is plenty to sample and I have a feeling I will like them all.

Fancy Burgers
17 Synagogue Place (off Rundle Street), Adelaide, South Australia
http://www.fancyburgers.com.au
Food: 9/10
Service: 9/10
Vibe: 9/10
Cost: $

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I have been looking so forward to checking this venue out as I have literally had half a dozen people tell me “I must visit for my blog”. Given that now I have overcome my fear of venturing down Port Road, I have been excited about heading back to this side of town for brekky, although this spot today is actually more familiar to me as it is near “The Gov” – frequently frequented thanks to my music interests but it is nice to see this area in the light of day. Google maps does send me on a bum-steer trying to enter First Street from non existent entrances off Park Terrace but save yourself the loops and turn off Port Road directly opposite the Entertainment Centre which is a paved carpark lane way.

It is actually pretty awesome to see this old railway building at the Bowden station used for something of this nature… and they certainly promote the association to the train line with large windows looking through to the station so you get to see & hear all the trains stopping or passing by regularly. It really adds to the atmosphere quite nicely.

My first impression inside is that it is big, but when you continue through a lot of the area is the entrance, kitchen and what is after 10am on a weekend also used for significant ‘line ups’… Then there actually is a modestly sized eating area inside and an outside deck. I like the open-ness and admire the huge lofty exposed ceiling with a bar area in the centre which is already a-buzz with activity. Looking around they have really made the décor their own, it is very ‘now’ but it doesn’t feel like they have tried to fill it with ‘funky retro’ for the sake of it. Things seem to belong, which is why it feels nice. We grab a decent sized table thanks to an early start and peruse the menu. Lots of great offerings. I have heard rave reviews on the banana bread and the chocolate chip pancakes also sound nice to me but having just gone back onto sugar it may be an overload so I revert to my staple of scrambled (or as they call them folded) eggs and bacon on the side, the other girls get the Avocado Smash. Following the run of over 35 degree days in Adelaide the three of us all opt for juice over coffee too.

We go up to order, personally a place with this style and the decent price tag on menu items I would really like table service, I am tired and in an ideal world I just want to sit and absorb time with my friends. Oh well.

We all order and from their assorted fresh juices I ask for an apple/orange but am declined as they “will not go outside the standard combinations”. Really? Is it too hard to assist with this seemingly basic request? The girl at the counter seems flustered by any request to be honest. They do go outside ‘policy’ for my friend who has fructose issues and prefers to have a combo without apple. So if you have a medical reason you can be an exception it seems. Could I be allergic to orange only but ok if apple is mixed with it?!?! Hmmmmm.

The juices are out quickly and are good. Served in jars like my Café Troppo review but a less ‘poor-mans’ version as they are amber glass with a cool neck at the top – almost custom made – I likey. My orange, orange and orange juice (minus some wanted apple) is nice and refreshing.

It seems like twenty seconds after the juice is out and first sip taken that the meals arrive. Seriously, like the blink of an eye. Wowee. It is all looking generously served, bright and piping hot on big plates. We dig in enthusiastically and everyone is happy… you can tell that it is hitting the spot for all. My folded eggs are rich and generously laced with parsley (it’s ok I like it though) and good seasoning, bacon is nice and still juicy and a lovely flavour. Poached eggs cooked really well and the avocado and tomato add some freshness ideal for a summer’s day that the other girls really like. If I am being over-critical I wish they didn’t give me a butter spread for the toast in the foil folded sachet – couldn’t they serve a wedge of butter in a little dish like their house-made tomato relish I have on the side or even pre-butter it for me? It would just look more premium, better for the perception they are obviously trying to achieve here. But this is the end of my criticism on the meal really, so isn’t really of any major consequence.

Bellies full and happy we just sit for another forty minutes or so and enjoy the place, play with the bub and catch up like we really wanted to in this great setting. The venue continues to pump… seeing ‘The Board Breakfast’ go past to other tables it looks like breakfast mecca – too much for me but with the right appetite (or hangover) it would be awesome!

While we didn’t check out the coffee today, being so hot and bothered in this Adelaide heat, their machine certainly presents that they are serious about coffee and you can see they have their own beans, also available for sale… which are apparently house sought and roasted. So check it out for sure in one of their signature blue cups.

Almost everything about this place is near perfect – the vibe, the setting, the food. It is nice to see a restaurant that gets so much right. Feedback from others is that it is consistent too – no one I have spoken to has seen it slip yet – which is good news as great expectations can be hard to uphold. There is also a lunch menu which looks delicious and I will definitely be back to check that out. So make Loose Caboose your next stop, you won’t be sorry you got off at this station.

The Loose Cabosse
21 First Street, Bowden, Adelaide, South Australia
(enter Station Place laneway, a paved carpark lane off Port Road opposite the Entertainment Centre, or catch the train to Bowden station)

Food: 9/10
Service: 8/10
Vibe: 9.5/10
Cost: $$

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One of the new additions perfectly timed around Fringe is this pop-up (potentially permanent) bar/eatery/art-space called Little Miss Mexico, strategically placed in the east end. It has certainly caught the eye of many, as several mates have mentioned I should check it out.

I am lucky enough to mix a visit with some “work” interest as a way to justify a trip out of the office. David Bowley (Vinteloper) is running a wine pressing over the lunch period so a few of us head along. I figure it is nice to check out a venue in the light of day too, it is almost like the morning after a hook up where you can see if they are as good as you thought they were without beer goggles and getting caught up in the momentum of the evening.

As I walk in on a warm day it is obvious this is going to be a place hard to leave when my work desk calls in about an hour. On a Thursday afternoon it is pretty busy as people enjoy Mexican food, cold Coronas, sangria carafes and some boutique vino on offer.

We settle in and first things first – we head to Vinteloper bar area and sign up for the “Urban Winery Project Tasting” card that allows us 5 (from 8 varietals) tasting samples for $15. We begin with the Rose as the recommended starter before later testing out the Riesling. The ‘Adelo’ blend sounds very interesting and will be tested next visit (a seemingly random blend of Touriga, Shiraz, Pinot and Grenache – wowee). Overall I commend him for the offer in a venue like this, not only are his wines (tasted so far) clean, crisp and easy drinking but the fact that it is likely to push the “I only drink Sauvignon Blanc” drinkers into actually trying a few varieties, who knows – they might actually like something else. A great initiative and arguably also a community service! Unfortunately spoilt by a wine industry palate, the wines in my opinion could do with a little more complexity but for the likely crowd and the setting a simple and well-constructed crisp wine is very very easy to swallow. As I sit in the sun and look around, it probably is perfect for here and don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining.

Now onto the food… heading to the counter I notice that the menu is for the most part exactly the same as my La Cantina Co food-truck experience (review here) so I now understand they are related. However, luckily I see some tapas options which is a great thing as I don’t really want the same again. As a result I order the dip plate (deconstructed nachos with beef), some zucchini fritters and chicken skewers to share. They come out in reasonable time and are all yummy. Nachos feature a very tender and flavoursome beef mixture with dense (non breaking as you scoop) corn chips, fresh guacamole and salsa… the fritters are a little watery and lacking a great deal of flavour [especially compared to my zucchini slice I made at home this week – I suggest they add some chilli flakes and maybe some tomato for some interest – especially trying to channel Mexican flavours?!] but the chicken tenderloin skewers are so juicy, tender and well flavoured. I wouldn’t mind a bit more marinate to really add some zing though. My major issue is the presentation, they are all served in the same takeaway style box which is fine for the bigger items, but for the fritters and skewers they look really lonely as a small thing in this big white boat with a splash of sauce in the corner. It could be done more cleverly I think, we do eat with our eyes too. Could they also maybe move away from budget white plastic cutlery? At least go wooden if they want to remain disposable? It feels cheap as is.

A colleague who didn’t get the La Cantina experience recently gets the Quesadillas and enjoys them, I see the mix is the same as we had from the truck but has been served more evenly and generously than our portable serving version which is good to see.

The venue ambiance is what makes each mouthful taste better though. All set up to enjoy nice weather and support the crowd atmosphere is the retro and recycled furniture (which I believe was from a community call out to donate) complemented by cooky extras like the basket lamp shades along strings of lights and succulents in planter boxes. The Urban Winery is also providing some interest during this quieter time and generally the crowd has a great vibe – all wanting to enjoy the space.

I can see that this place would be great at night, and advice is that the atmosphere is amplified thanks to a DJ on the decks and the buzzing ambiance after sunset. I can tell it would work really well. Not sure how well the bar or food would keep up in a busy influx but get the carafe between two and just sit and enjoy perhaps?!

Side note; Porta-loo toilets I hope may be upgraded if this does become a permanent offering. I only really accept this type of toilet in short term locations and at music festivals!

Here is hoping that this venue, and many others like it (or not even created yet), can benefit by the new laws around licensing of small venues. I would love to see more of these options really spice up our city. We are all calling out for them, which is why this place is already so popular.

So I recommend you head to this little urban oasis and try the Vinteloper Wines (and more than just Sauvignon Blanc), some cheap and cheerful Mexican/Tapas food and soak up the atmosphere in this good weather before heading to the Garden of Unearthly Delights or your Fringe show. Get in early on popular summer nights as it isn’t big and would fill up quickly… and support this great venue format which hopefully might become more prevalent throughout the city and that this one will stay around post-Fringe. I might see you at the bar?!

Little Miss Mexico
188 Grenfell Street, Adelaide (Next to Crown & Ancor)
http://www.facebook.com/LittleMissMexico

Food: 7/10
Service: 8/10
Vibe: 9/10
Cost: $$

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It doesn’t take much to encourage me to skip my bowl of leftovers or a home made ham sandwich and have a ‘different’ lunch while I am at work… and so the arrival of a custom flyer (impressive marketing!!!) to advise that La Cantina Co Mexican Street Kitchen is visiting our office’s street was very welcome news.

Food trucks or the ‘pop up’ style of hospitality are growing in availability and gaining popularity at the same time – and why not, we all love to see a new eating option where it didn’t exist before. I hear that bricks and mortar retailers in the city are getting peeved of such options literally lobbing up nearby and stealing clientele, but it certainly all makes sense to me. Clever business I say.

From mid morning I am thinking about the delicious Mexican I imagine I will be enjoying at lunch and by 12.30pm a few of us head down. The line is big from both my colleagues and those from other buildings nearby. It’s a nice day so we don’t mind being ‘forced’ to enjoy some sun as we line up to order then wait for the goods to be cooked. I see that the options include soft tacos $6 each or (2 for $10) or quesadillas at $7 each. I decide to go one of each for ‘research’ and then the fillings include beef & chorizo, chicken, pork or vego. I see servings aren’t that big so definitely need two, Beef & Chicken for me.

We wait over 15 minutes in the sun for our orders… still nice as we take the opportunity to forget about work and get some Vitamin D. However, upon presentation of my order they have done it as 2 x tacos, I decide that “no I want to try both” (and I did repeat my order twice and she even repeated back) and ask them to correct it. We wait another 5-7 minutes and while genuinely apologetic I get 2 x quesadillas, still not the combo I ordered – it is all too hard, I am hungry, I just take it and run. Seriously though, there isn’t that much on the menu, they should be able to get it right. What I paid doesn’t even match any of the combinations in the end.

We head up to our office balcony deck to dig in and it is certainly yummy and piping hot to boot. Just the right level of spice heat mixed in with a great concoction across filling types. Luckily my generous colleagues let me try theirs so I still get a mixed experience. The tacos are better I think, with additions like sour cream, guacamole and salad it increases the freshness rather than my toasted basic filling only options that by the end feel a little stodgy, now seeming like the poor cousin although beautifully toasted on the outside. The beef mixture is great – black beans, a hit of chilli warmth and maybe a bit of chorizo (but not enough, I can’t really see it!) is delicious. The chicken one – it should have been called “corn… with a bit of chicken”. I feel like they tried to use up a mega can the size of a bucket in the mix. The meat and flavour is delicious, but I need more of it and without corn dominance. Some of my quesadillas quarters have maybe two small bits of chicken and others have good coverage throughout, so it is very inconsistent. The food is pretty ugly from a photography point of view but certainly tasty. The authentic bottled green hot sauce was good on the side and I noticed they had Jarritos (Mexican) soda too – nice touch.

Still, we easily smash these out and they are pretty yummy with each bite making you want more… which is a good sign and you get that lingering mouth burn from chilli that reminds you for a decent time after that you just ate something delicious. I was probably over mine though by the end without the same salad/freshness of the guys with the tacos. There is plenty of the finely diced filling that has made its way down our hands. Unfortunately no napkins at the truck to make it cleaner eating as they had ‘ran out’. You’d think they could be stocked up given the style of food.

For a $10ish lunch it is good, and it did offer a bit of spice (literally) to an otherwise average day in the office. I think they need to maybe look at their filling mixture, perhaps up the meat content, even if they charge a buck or two more. I also think they need to look at including more of the salads or salsas to freshen it up and add some moisture – tomato salsa, more guoc, lime, other greens, they need to have a play with the balances of their mix and also ensure for the tacos filling is spread throughout and not all at particular layers. From my experience they certainly need to get their staff more schooled in getting the order right, hire people good under pressure. Fundamentally, I think if they really want to excel they need to be quicker at getting the orders out, even cut the menu down and just crank out multiples to hand out as purchased as over 15 minutes is not fast food and takes up a hefty part of your lunch break… they’re busy enough over the peak time to avoid any wastage!

So certainly not a bad option and most definitely better than the alternatives at your fingertips so close to work. I’d go the taco options, at least two, and make sure they take your order right. Maybe you can request a visit to a well populated lunch location or check out where they are next via their social media feeds (links below).

Well done to them for capitalising on such a popular format and cuisine style and thanks for ‘bringing it to me’… a few little tweaks and they could easily take their offer from good to great. My fingers are crossed that they do.

La Cantina Co Mexican Street Kitchen
Various locations – check out on twitter or facebook for updates

Food: 6.5/10
Service: 5/10
Vibe: 7/10
Cost: $

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It is small and the tables are incredibly tight inside with no hope of getting my baby pram in there, so outside is our only option but we luckily nab the last one available. Despite the size, I like the set up, it is quirky and decorated with a theme of sustainable and recycled wares – aged wood, corrugated iron and chairs made with hessian coffee bags as the cushion covers. It is nice to see a style that is different to most of the others out there and it all works together nicely and gives the place a good feel.

The clientele on this Sunday morning is mixed – the young arty types with their nerdy glasses to the MAMILs (middle aged men in lycra)… their bikes, almost a contradiction alongside each other combining vintage fixies with cute baskets at the front to the modern bike worth more than many cars on the road! Regardless, they all look great stacked against the iron exterior and everyone is happily enjoying what is on offer.

The three of us girls are all pretty hungry and have a hens party to organise so coffees are quickly out and provide the starting inspiration, from the sign inside it seems they have a single origin special blend they feature and today’s is Columbian – organic and fair trade as well (of course).

Then it becomes about the breakfast offer. I see the waffles being made and then some coming out as I wait to order at the counter and wish I wasn’t doing sugar-free at the moment, I know my hubby would be quick to order them if he was here. We all opt for eggs though… I am a little disappointed when I ask for a custom combination (combining two of their menu options) and they aren’t interested in doing anything outside the simple menu choices covering only a handful of items. They aren’t very accommodating at all and for brekky and a juice I have been slugged $26 – and with no table service either.

For our table order we have poached eggs with dukkah and then two of us go for the scrambled option with chilli and coriander, mine with bacon thanks! Gotta test these things.

A fresh juice is a nice compliment and comes out in the ‘oh so now’ jar as a glass. Not sure I am a big fan of this anymore – been done – move on. However it does mean a decent serving size although they have tried to take the trend to the next level with a bamboo straw. I honestly feel like I should pull it out and play a piccolo solo, but anyhow. Again, size is a bonus I guess as it ensures plenty in the gob in one go.

Breakfast is reasonably quick to come out and is hot and fresh, colours look great and the chilli hint with the cori undertone catches my nose and gets the mouth salivating. It is really nice, I can’t complain about any of the elements on my plate, it is all yummy. Poached eggs for my friend are good but maybe a little bit overdone at the sides if being critical.

I am pretty happy with the breakfast, despite its price tag am left feeling full and content. The chilli was a really nice addition to the scrambled eggs, one for my home cooked options I will have to replicate.

Perhaps a little unfairly, I can’t help but directly compare it to my great experience the day before in Croydon but despite the brekky being really tasty, thinking about the vibe of the place this one is trying to be cool as much as it is cool. Overall, it is still a great little spot for a good brekky and it seems they do offer lunch and even tapas style dinner on some days – I would actually be interested in checking that out.

Cafe Troppo
42 Whitmore Square (crn Sturt St) , Adelaide, South Australia

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It isn’t so much the venue of my post (which was also good) but more so the location… one where I was genuinely surprised and excited that this existed in my little city. The suburb is Croydon. Yep, for an Eastern Suburbs girl intrinsically used to snubbing anything north of the city (that isn’t North Adelaide), I can hand on heart say that I am in love with this treasure of a suburb. Well, it really centres around one street as far as I can tell, Queen Street, and with its retro modern combination of stores and cafes it just has a vibe that I haven’t experienced anywhere else in Adelaide. I have no doubt that it’s the nostalgic Melbourne in me that makes the style of this place resonate, but the essence is funky and full of character that is in no way ‘trying to be cool’… it just “is”. That is something that simply happens and can’t be achieved without the right magic, which this place has in spades.

So, this review will cover one of the venues at the heart of this strip – Queen Street Cafe. I have heard lots of people mention it for some time but it seemed too much of a trek and being the unknown didn’t get me across until now. In hindsight I feel quite annoyed at myself.

Upon arrival to this already bustling street on a Saturday at 9.30am, I know it is love at first sight, the mosaic street flower pots, artistically painted power poles and the style of shop fronts and al fresco areas all grab me as I begin my Croydon adventure.

In prime place on the strip is this restaurant which is welcoming with wide doorways and my cousin and her hubby sitting in the corner waving to me. I already know this place is going to be good, it just feels like a well oiled machine and you get the feeling that the majority of people are regulars. We quickly survey the menu which has the classics but some great unique combinations too, ones that I imagine the chefs are pretty proud of. I order the BLT, but we also have on the table scrambled eggs with chorizo and an interesting sounding mango and coconut tapioca. Fresh OJ’s and coffee too.

There is plenty to enjoy as we wait hungrily for a big brekky – art on the wall, the visible counter with busy kitchen behind, diners inside and out – that actually impressively has nearly all the seats filled this early in the morning.

Fresh juice is delish and coffee good with the long black providing a decent dose of caffeine that was so dearly yearned for… then comes the food, which is colourful, vibrant and fresh. Time to dig in and we are all pretty happy with the choices. Scrambled eggs are awesome, my bacon crispy is complimented with the salad and the entertainingly wobbly tower of tapioca a great ‘different’ choice to a usual breakfast. It doesn’t take long for all the plates to be bare… the only criticism from the group is that the chorizo had a slightly different flavor than they were used to but still was nice. It certainly is a solid breakfast, which you can see would be consistent and reliable. Notably, it is not super cheap compared to other breakfast offerings out there but I don’t mind when you can rely on it being good and it is likely that one of their menu items may become your staple weekend breakfast favourite.

Bellies full we relax back into our seats and continue to enjoy the atmosphere. It has been a satisfying start to the day and is only enhanced by a stroll up and down the street to check out the stores nearby which are awesome – homewares, organic groceries and vintage clothing abound. My biggest tip is to make sure you allow enough time to enjoy the full street to its potential. Oh how I wish I had a full wallet to match my eye’s demands.

I really hope that more people visit this gorgeous street of Adelaide and be reminded of what “up and coming” feels like. Something that is unfortunately all too rare in our fine city. I can’t wait to go back and check out the other offers on this street or visit Queen Street Cafe again, I certainly won’t take as long to head over here next time!

Queen Street Cafe

12 Elizabeth Street (extension of Queen Street), Croydon, Adelaide, South Australia

Food: 8/10

Service: 8/10

Vibe: 9/10 (Street: 10/10)

Price: $$

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Everyone racks their brains on the next option. North Adelaide has a few, but nothing that overly excites us, and we have our BYO bottles already to consider. We end up thinking “Oh yeah – Tin Cat (in Kent Town)”, it’s an oldie but a goodie. They take a booking, confirm BYO, and so we head there. Unfortunately, thanks to a late finishing function, outside is not an option in their cute courtyard garden, but we happily take the big window table at the front.

The retro decor, odd collectables and the gallery aspect prove an interesting setting for lots of looking around and admiring which is always nice… we swoon at the collection of 1950′s tables and chairs – all in perfect condition, which must have taken ages to accumulate.

I have had breakfast and lunch here in the past… both were fabulous. The lunches in particular were all served in the garden on a warm day and it was a heavenly oasis, I remember not wanting to leave! Dinner proves to be fairly gourmet thanks to a sophisticated menu that leaves all of us salivating at the clever combinations that sound divine. Adding the specials, and even an extra vego option they threw in for our table upon request, there is certainly enough to choose from. Our starters see the roasted garlic, bread, olives, paprika almonds and seafood sharing plate (including the well discussed white anchovies – “oh you haven’t tasted” – “they aren’t like normal anchovies” – “they are more like sardines” – “trust us, you’ll love them” – “oh please try them”). All is devoured pretty quickly as we enjoy a crisp & clean Coriole Verdelho and then my staple, Jacob’s Creek Reserve Riesling. Yum! A quick skim of the drinks list has a nice assortment, although pricey. An imported beer will cost you $10. The BYO has worked well for us at $15 per bottle of wine.

Our mains are timed well, soon-ish after, and leave us all with goggling eyes… they are huge! Then the sides… very generous, in particular as a potato lover I am excited at the roast spuds piled up. We have a great mix of mains over the table including vego along with barramundi, salt & pepper soft shell crab and lamb.

We all dig in and there are no complaints. Everything is cooked to perfection. I have the lamb rack sitting on a yummy little concoction… A delicious rich jus with figs covering Israeli couscous and a pistachio crusted labne (yogurt cheese) on the side which proves a perfect compliment. Meat is cooked just how I asked. Everyone says they are thrilled with their meals and there is plenty of table sharing going on too – excited to taste.

We finish our meals very satisfied and despite being full keep picking as it is just too hard to leave such good food on the plate.

Dessert or cheese are contemplated long and hard but most just simply do not have room despite wishing they did… my hubby, as always, proves there is a different stomach for sweets and orders the trifle as the lone dessert. It comes out looking proud and showing off each of the layers, he enjoys every element and announces “how good is jelly?”, yes, pretty good. The short blacks across the table are a nice finish to a satisfying meal.

It has been a lovely dinner only further complimented by exceptional service. I must say, every time here the staff have been really great. Very attentive, lots of personality and enjoy a bit of banter and involvement in your table which is nice. Another bonus, it is in the Entertainment Book and with the card a couple of us luckily have in the purse plus the BYO we had means it is an extremely reasonable night out given the quality and quantity of food. Mains are around $30+ but you definitely get what you pay for here if you don’t mind paying a little more than average to enjoy great food and service.

So while not what we originally planned for this evening, it was not disappointing by any stretch of the imagination. Service, food, company, wine… a great night out and just what the doctor ordered to enjoy some time with dear friends. Tin Cat still has plenty of potential, as one of the original arty-type bistros of Adelaide and a rich history that includes being a bakery, brothel and a jazz supper club. As my sister said, the set up lends itself to it being a more happening place, especially out the back any summer weekend… and yes, more people should reacquaint themselves with this great little Adelaide treasure on the edge of the city.

Tin Cat Cafe, Restaurant & Gallery
107 Rundle Street, Kent Town, Adelaide, South Australia
http://www.tincat.com.au

Food: 9/10
Service: 9/10
Vibe: 8/10 – on a busy warm day/night in the garden 10/10
Price: $$$

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Well it is a lazy Sunday and we’re having dinner with my sis and soon to be bro-in-law. We’ve all been busy today, so takeaway is on the cards and we decide to head to Arriba (Mexican) Grill. The claim – organic, fresh and tasty burritos.

I have driven past quite a few times and been intrigued, pleased to see another new funky dining option pop up in Radelaide burbs, and excited to give it a go. I have heard their original Prospect store is fabulous and it is great to have one this side of town. There is also one in Glenside for the eastern suburbs folk.

We head there and the concept is simple – all they do is burritos – & following several steps you make your selections on fillings and style: meat, salad, sauces, spiciness and in a wrap or bowl (great for those avoiding gluten). Between the four of us we pretty much cover the whole menu… yes it is very basic, but on a Sunday night that is probably good!

The menu system is something I really enjoy… up on a board clearly but with a sheet for you to tick your selections, obviously making the cooking process easy and less risk for everyone. I LIKE! The great benefit was my sis had collected forms last visit so the group had filled in at home which was super easy! Pricing is from $9-$15 per burrito, which is extremely reasonable considering the quality of ingredients.

We enjoy the decor waiting for our takeaway, chuckling at the original retro Super Mario video game set up by the window, funky cacti on tables and the basic but sufficient seating set up for this ‘takeaway’ come ‘eat in’ store. The customer flow is consistent, many people agree that a burrito is a good dinner option tonight.

I appreciate seeing our food being made by staff as we wait… all the fresh and organic ingredients visible over the counter as they compile the yummy bundles of goodness. Thanks to the menu sheets they even get named on the bags making distribution in your group a breeze.

Ready to eat we all delve into our burritos and they are just what we craved… hearty, fresh (and from our choice) the perfect level of spice desired. The room is silent, always a good sign, and it almost becomes a race to see who can smash it first. All the components work really well, the tomato salsa sauce and guacamole is delish, meat is tender and all is held/wrapped together really well – there is no liquid escaping from these bad boys.

My only real criticism is that I wish it was hotter (temperature), I even give it a zap in the microwave… From last visit my sister actually asked them about how hot it is meant to be and staff explained their intention is more like a sandwich with warm meat, very lightly heated bread and then cold salads. Intention or not, I just wish it was served warmer. Others in our group disagree and like it as is, verdict is split on this challenge in our group: 2-2. Maybe the temperature option could be a selection – a quick heat post wrapping for those that want it hot? The lime rice could have a little more lime for me, but I do appreciate that there is a fine line when it can then dominate too much.

My other wish is that there were some ‘sides’ options… smokey paprika spiced chips with a zesty dipping sauce or even that amazing juicy mexican corn that made me yell “OMFG” when I first tasted thanks to Melbourne’s Mamasita (which I have since found the recipe for and recreated, here for those begging me for the recipe. The finished result looks like this).

Instead, our “side” this evening was a bottle of St Hugo GSM (Grenache, Shiraz, Mataro) at home. In full disclosure a ‘work baby’ of mine. However, I must say though it was an exceptional partner – rich, juicy, savoury. It is heavy enough to work with a spicy burrito but soft enough to let the fresh flavours of the food play their part too. It does cost nearly as much as the four burritos, but damn it was great and why the hell not… Good food, great people and all that. As my favourite wine at work at the moment, I encourage you to check it out (limited distribution in fine wine retailers) but noticed like usual Dan Murphy’s has it far too cheap – so enjoy while you can – only a small make on exceptional years.
This does also make me note, if eating in store there is only a fridge of softies… no alcohol. Perhaps a BYO from the BWS next door would be allowed (?) or grab a bottle of vino or a 6pk of Corona or Sol while getting your takeaway to take home with you.

Overall, the burritos were pretty spectacular – extremely fresh and tasty, packed full, wrapped tight and the store experience was great. I really like the concept and will certainly be back again. If you want a cheap, easy, fresh, tasty and pretty healthy takeaway with a difference… ditch the fish and chips or soggy burger option and trade up from your local yiros – try an Arriba Burrito. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

Arriba Grill
476 Goodwood Road, Cumberland Park, Adelaide, South Australia
http://www.arribagrill.com.au

Food: 8/10
Service: 9/10
Vibe: 7/10
Price: $

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It is probably quite fitting that my first post, and what will likely consume many more, covers breakfast. Most important meal of the day and all that… but yes, for me as an early riser, I love breakfast and the whole ‘event’ of breakfast.

It all began when I first moved to Melbourne and was literally gobsmacked at the sight of everyone hitting the cafes from first light to mid afternoon and grazing on breakfast while reminiscing of events from the prior night, sipping lattes and reading the paper. It looked so cool, it was fun and it was just the way to make you feel like it was a weekend. It didn’t take me long to assymilate and you could find me down Chapel or High Street in Prahran doing just the same pretty regularly. My (now) husband and I had a ritual of swapping the sport and real estate sections over bacon and eggs on Saturday morning as we relaxed for a couple of hours and took a breath on the back of a busy week – and usually an eventful Friday night.

After moving back to Adelaide I must say it was one of the biggest disappointments… Good breakfast venues were few and far between, it was expensive and you were lucky if anyone served it past 11.30am. Now, thankfully, like true Adelaide style we finally get it, have run with it and haven’t looked back since. Breakfast in Adelaide is a hip and happening thing and plenty of places are putting on a great spread. Hallelujah!

My first review is of a local haunt, still fairly new, but apparently associated with another of our favourite finds (Pantry on Egmont, Hawthorn) and is “Ginger’s Coffee Studio” on Goody Road. Small, eclectic retro decor and a simple but varied menu to satisfy all your needs. The breakfast burger looks like an interesting option after an indulgent night before, but not this time for me.

Today is the new style of brekky I am getting used to – not so ‘lazy and late’, more so early and with my friend Sam and our young kids… mine sound asleep over this time but hers ready to run! We order our drinks and given today is part of Adelaide’s hot summer heatwave a freshly squeezed juice sounds perfect. [Apple, orange, pineapple] combo a favourite of mine and out quickly to quench that thirst.

We both order eggs, mine with bacon, and continue to chat about recent happenings, annoyances and pleasures of the kids and comment on the vintage pieces across this venue that catch our eye. Staff are friendly and attentive and while the space is fairly small I kinda like that. Perhaps it is the Melbourne in me.

Food isn’t the quickest out but worth the wait and is piping hot and fresh on arrival. Light on the toast serving, but generous on the good stuff, we both tuck in. Sam’s eggs are poached, cloud like outers sitting proud on the plate and oozing perfectly as she cuts in, and my scrambled eggs quite dense but beautifully seasoned and bright coloured. Bacon is lean and served crisp like I asked… thank you!

We see the healthier options coming out which all look nice too and the coffee machine is getting a workout by both those having breakfast along with takeaway customers made up of cyclists and walkers-by that are the store’s likely regulars.

All in all it was a good experience, nice and reasonably priced breakfasts, fabulous juice and friendly service. I encourage you to check it out. They do lunch also!

[Coffee was tested on a visit since, latte was good, served warm rather than hot which seems to be the 'in thing' at many venues.]

Ginger’s Coffee Studio
109A Goodwood Road, Goodwood, Adelaide, South Australia
http://www.gingerscoffeestudio.com.au

Food: 7/10
Service: 8/10
Vibe: 7/10
Price: $$

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