Next of Kin

Brunch is by far my most favourite meal of the day and is something I always find my self looking forward to. However I do have to admit, my brunching adventures are getting a tad ridiculous. Pfft, what am I talking about ? I love it. But really, there is just so little time, yet so many cafes to choose from ! 

So which cafe was next of my list you ask ? Next of Kin of course.

From the man behind Cafe Gaia, you can find Next of Kin nestled snuggly down Glenhuntly Road in leafy Elsternwick. Inside, Next of Kin is light and bright, featuring lofty benches (sponge finger walls I like to call them) contrasted with rustic geometric chairs, a living wall of native climbing plants and decorative copper bowl light fixtures. A great space with thoughtful decor.

The menu here offers more than your usual drill. Sure you always have the option to order eggs your way, but don't stop there. Think Spiced Lamb Shoulder Tacos with spicy chipotle mayo, manchego, purple cabbage, coriander and lime. If that doesn't tickle your fancy, I'm sure the Herby Braised Mushrooms with baked polenta, goats curd, oozy fried egg, preserved lemon, hazelnuts and sorrel will do the trick.

Skinny Flat White

Cured Ocean Trout

My dish was sensational - crispy, velvety, rich, sweet and fresh all on one plate. The cured ocean trout was cooked beautifully, partnering well with sweet potato croquettes and avocado puree. I was particularly impressed with the inclusion of beetroot, in not just one way but three - pickled, poached and beetroot pearls. Finished with radish, fennel and fill, this dish ticked every box and more.

Poached Eggs and Avocado

My brunching buddy was after a much simpler start to her day, constructing her own poached eggs with gluten free noisette bread delightfully crusted with sesame seeds and perfectly rice folds of avocado. Simple, but done very well.

Come here for a cheery brunching experience coupled with good coffee, great food and over the moon service. Do yourself a favour and get yourself to Next of Kin for some good vibes ! 

confessions of a little piggy was invited to dine as a guest of Next of Kin

Next of Kin

546 Glen Huntly Road  

Elsternwick, VIC 3185

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Loco Coffee

Not wanting to travel too many kilometres for our brunch date, we decided on Loco Coffee in Elsternwick. It had been under my radar and was within my radar. You know Manchester Press ? Loco's the older sibling to the famous Manchester Press, so this got me really excited and set the bar high.

Skinny Flat White

I was pretty pumped to see some tricky, crazy, out-there coffee art. However, all I got was the standard rosetta. I'll admit, I was pretty bummed. But the taste definitely made up for it. Like Manchester Press, Loco Coffee too uses their custom blend, 8 Oz Coffee. Super smooth, creamy, full bodied with caramel highlights. I was very tempted to order another.

Mushroom and Hummus

Changing things up a little, I chose not to go for an avocado smash. Instead, I ordered the mushroom and hummus. Piled high with goodies, came two thick slices of sourdough, generously spread with creamy hummus, surrounded by mushrooms and two avocado wedges. Two nicely poached eggs sat on top of the throne and was sprinkled with dukkah, giving the dish a very Middle Eastern feel.   Breaking the egg was picture perfect as the yolk just melted away. It went well with the hummus, which was a lovely blend of chickpeas, lemon juice, salt and garlic. I did find the balsamic mushrooms a little too strong in the vinegar department though, I would have much preferred some thyme buttered mushrooms. 

Combit

My friend ordered  the other dish I was eyeing off, the Combit. This had made my decision much easier and was a win win situation for me, as I got to try both the items. The Combit consisted of poached eggs served on sourdough, topped with avocado, pan fried cherry tomatoes, olives and pesto. The nibble I had of this was delightful. From the pop of the cherry tomatoes to the pesto blend. 

Loco had a very happy atmsphere to it, and staff were great. In particular, our waiter was very friendly and attentitive. I must add, my friend also found him to be very good looking. When it came to paying, they made no fuss about splitting the bill which makes things so much easier. In-fact they offered to. As I was paying, I did see a waiter walk past with a coffee with the most adorable bear etched in. And yes, of course I was jealous.One might even say, I was loco about it. I guess that just means I'll have to come back later ! 

Loco Coffee

436 Glen Huntly Road 

Elsternwick, VIC

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