Pillar of Salt

Pillar of Salt is probably one of my most visited cafes. That says a lot, doesn't it ? Majority of the time, my lunch breaks are rushed and I opt for one of their freshly made baguettes. Though given the opportunity, whenever the girls at work and I do have the extra minutes to spare, Pillar of Salt is still the first one to come to mind. 

Skinny Flat White 

Coffee beans are from Five Senses, which made a sweet and full bodied Skinny Flat White. A reliable pick me up for those long days at work - when coffee makes everything better.

Fish Burger

My work colleagues and I are hooked to the Fish Burger -  warm toasted brioche with sweet rockling fish fillets and a vibrant slaw accompanied by a creamy aioli, with a faint spiciness to it. They’ve done a commendable job in piling everything on. A squeeze of mouth-puckering lime perfected the burger. A fresh and tasty burger excellent for  summer-time.

At Pillar of Salt, the portions are generous and staff are fast, efficient and understanding - all very important when every minute counts. Overall, at Pillar of Salt you're guaranteed a full belly and a smile on your face when you step out the door.

Pillar of Salt

541 Church Street 

Richmond, VIC

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NBHD Neanderthal

What's a NBHD Neanderthal ? A mouthful to say is what it is, but mouthfuls definitely worth going for. Let's get straight into it. 

 Skinny Flat White

Coffee was Proud Mary's Brazil & Ethiopian house blend. The first sip of coffee was bold with lingering flavours of plum.

Soy Latte

Green Eggs and Ham

I was torn between a few choices, but ended up ordering the Green Eggs and Ham. The hefty slice of rye toast was teamed up with braised ham hock, fresh tomato, wilted spinach, poached eggs and finished with an impressive pea purée. A combination that oozed deliciousness with each bite. My only complaint would be that the ham was just a tad too salty for my liking. But still, NBHD Neanderthal, I do like your Green Eggs and Ham, I do like them, Jen-I-Am. 

Balmain Bug Roll

We also ordered the Balmain Bug Roll - lightly battered Balmain bug, creamy cabbage slaw,  jalapeños and nutty avocado schmear between a brioche bun. Dare I say it reminded me of McDonald's Filet-O-Fish ? But of course - much fancier, fresher and oh so much better. 

Slow Braised Lamb Shanks

On a bed of the dreamiest mashed potato in beef jus, the slow braised lamb shanks were beautifully tender. Other elements of the dish included a pistachio crumble that added texture and crunch, and creamy Persian feta that was a refreshing contrast to the hearty lamb and mash.

NBHD Neadenderthal is a cafe that offers a strong menu with strong customer service. Waiters knew when to approach you and when to let you be. A lovely space where we did not feel rushed at all, or anyone eyeing us off to leave the moment you finish your last bite and brush the crumbs from your mouth. Neanderthals may not be around anymore, but NBHD Neanderthal is certainly here to stay. 

NBHD Neanderthal

153 Commercial Road 
South Yarra, VIC

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The Meatball and Wine Bar

The first time A and I tried to dine at The Meatball and Wine Bar on Flinders Lane, we were unsuccessful. Luckily for us, it's Richmond twin was much more accommodating, and from the moment we sat down - we knew we were in for a ball.

Our waitress introduced the specials of the day and explained how to go about in choosing our 'Balls & All'. Pick your preferred balls (pork, beef, chicken, fish, or vegetarian), sauce them up (red italian tomato, white creamy, or green pesto salsa verde), and give the balls something to rest on (Italian beans, polenta, potato smash, pasta, or something veg). 

Pork Balls with Green on Polenta

The kurobuta pork balls (think wagyu of pork), minced together with fennel seeds, sage and orange rind were delicious. These balls were nestled in a smooth comforting polenta, draped in a green pesto salsa verde, and speckled with grated parmesan.

Halloween Balls

We also ordered the Special of the Day, which were the Halloween Balls - a pair of large lamb shoulder balls, served with a creamy white sauce atop richly buttered risoni. Adding some crunch were a handful of roughly chopped hazelnuts and the sweet pop of drunken raisins and roasted pumpkin.

Hip and happening atmosphere, warm and attentive atmosphere, drool worthy balls, and pun heaven - what else do you need ? Our experience at The Meatball and Wine Bar was amazeballs.

The Meatball and Wine Bar

105 Swan Street
Richmond, Vic

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