For a change (really for the first time) I chose the best dish … a pumpkin and truffle risotto with grano padano. The risotto was really good, unanimously the pick of the day. The rice was meltingly smooth with the right amount of cheese to make it creamy and not gluggy. The tiny pieces of pumpkin provided texture to the dish, and I kept getting a taste of fresh herbs that I couldn’t quite put the name to—maybe basil? It was so good I'd definitely order it again.
The Reuben sandwich with corned beef, sauerkraut and Russian dressing was the second choice for the day, and one I’d happily have another time. The bread was nicely toasted, with moist corned beef and sauerkraut, and served with pickle and a basic salad. There were plenty of takers for the pickles, and yet again Big Fil scores with his selection. It was nice to see New York Jewish style food on the menu. Big Fil did note, however, the serve could have been a bit more generous.
The poached chicken breast, egg, mayonnaise and mixed leaves on wholemeal was nice. Predominately chicken, it was moist and delicate with only a touch of egg and mayonnaise. However, at the end of the day it did just feel like a very good chicken sandwich without the depth of flavours of the Reuben's sandwick or risotto.
The least favourite of the day was our vegetarian contingents choice, the bruschetta of Shaw buffalo mozzarella and tomato. While it looked the part, taste wise it was described as tomato on toast; nothing special and something that was served everywhere.
Overall
The dishes ranged from very good to average. It was a little pricey for what we got because serves of a couple of the dishes could have been a bit more generous. The service was friendly, knowledgeable and quick, and the café had a nice overall feel to it. We went on a rainy day and the outside seating would be nice in better weather.
Verdict
Food - 7
Price – 6
Service - 7
Ambience -7.5
Address
295 Exhibition St
Melbourne, 3000
Ph: (03) 9650 9222
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