There's soemthing that comes with age that changes your perceptions and things you enjoy in life. For example, alcohol and wine. A year ago I wouldn't consider ordering a glass of Sauvignon Blanc with my meal, but times are achanging! Another thing I've grown to appreciate is nature and greenery. Think lush forrest, autumn leaves, blooming flowers - I love it all. One thing I've always enjoyed is a good cup of coffee, with silky foamed milk and a rich bittersweet taste. Harvest Cafe gives me three things I love. The third? It's close to home!
[Above] The Function Room
I took my aunt from overseas to experience a Western Cafe and coffee that's so much better than China's. The cafe was quite packed for a weekday and there was only one waitress. We were quickly seated but she didn't come back to us to take our orders, instead when we hailed our hands the chef came. Our coffees came out quite quickl, however it took almost 20 minutes for the food to come out after that, which I think is a bit of a long wait for a Cafe.
Latte $4
Eggs Benedict w Sauteed Spinach, Poached Eggs and House Made Hollandaise Sauce on an English Muffin w Smoked Salmon $16
This was actually my first time trying Eggs Benedict (yes, I live under a rock) and I thought it was amazing. The oozing egg yolk with bread is one of my faves. The fresh spianch sauteed balanced the smoked salon and hollandaise flavours, while the muffin broke up the texture. My aunt was also very satisfied with this dish.
[Lunch Special] Barramundi w Cous Cous, Eggplant and Pumpkin salad w White Wine Sauce (approx $25)
This is one of the best barramundi's I've had, granted I've only tried it a few times prior. The skin was nice and crispy and the flesh was sweet and full of juice. The cous cous salad and green beans complimented the dish well with no overpowering flavours. As this was a lunch special, they would only have it occasionally so please try it if they have it!
French Toast w Ricotta, Maple, Berry Compote and Toasted Almonds $13
Thick cut brioche style bread dipped in egg mixture and pan fried, covered with subtly sweet maple syrup and berry compote. The toast was soft and fluffy on inside, but had a slight crsipy crunch on the outside. I think the dish would of been better with like fresh blueberries, strawberries and bananas though. I didn't enjoy the compote much, it was way to sweet, especially since there's maple already. The almonds added a nice texture and toasty taste.
An overall great dining experience at Harvest. However it is still a garden centre, so sometimes the smell of manure or other nose itching stenches can creep up and turn you off your food. I've heard other lunch items there such as the burger is quite nice as well, so will definitely go back to try that. More on that another
Food: 4.5/5
Service: 2.5/5Atmosphere: 3/5
Interior: 3/5
Revisit: 5/5 - just for good coffee even!
Harvest Cafe
Bonnyrigg Garden Centre
Cnr of Elizabeth Dr and Wilson Rd, Bonnyrigg 2177
http://www.cafeharvest.com.au/
Breakfast and Lunch
Mon-Sun: 8am-5pm (kitchen till 3pm)
Dinner
Last Saturday of every month 6pm-late
(bookings only)
Labels: food