Twenty & Six Espresso

From the outside, Twenty & Six Espresso isn't the most exciting thing ever. But of course I had been eyeing off this place for god knows how long, so I knew exactly what was behind those doors. And you know what, I'm just going to casually throw in a little life lesson - you shouldn't judge a book by its cover anyway.

Iced Coffee and Mörk Iced Chocolate

At first glance, we found the menu here at Twenty & Six Espresso rather small - but a proper read through later, there is really something for everyone. From the Brioche french toast, Roasted chicken picnic sandwich to the Lemon house cured salmon tartare, the small yet exciting menu caters for all. The small menu also allows them to change it up seasonally.

Seared Tuna

JJ and I, like always, were on the same wave length and we both chose to have the Seared Tuna. Flash seared to perfection, the tuna had a deliciously meaty flavour - a rich, buttery texture that was packed with protein. In contrast, there were a handful of punchy flavours, from the sweetness of the asparagus spears, herbed infused roasted tomatoes to the salty white anchovies nestled within. The kiplfer potatoes with salsa versde went well here, adding another dimension of texture. To top it all off, we were also  graced with the most perfect wobbly oozy slow cooked egg. 

Fried Polenta

The other two were instantly drawn to the fried polenta - with braised mushrooms, crunchy asparagus spears, slow poached egg with ricotta and salsa verde. No complaints here as both dishes were wiped clean.

With such great vibrant food and fresh flavours, the girls and I were certainly impressed with the creative take on brunch Twenty & Six Espresso had going. The only gripe we had was that we were seated outside where it was far too hot. But hey, that's not Twenty & Six's fault - I'm blaming Melbourne for that.

Twenty & Six Espresso

594 Queensberry Street 

North Melbourne, VIC

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South Melbourne Market Dim Sims

The South Melbourne Market has to be one of Melbourne's most popular markets. And it's not hard to see why - over 133 unique businesses all under one roof. And in my mind, The South Melbourne Market triggers two things - quality fresh produce and the famous South Melbourne Market Dim Sims. 

South Melbourne Dim Sims can be found just along Cecil Street - a simple hole in the wall among the energy and excitement that the market brings. Sure, you may not notice the signage at first, but you would have to be blind to miss the line of devotees waiting eagerly to sink their teeth into a dimmy or two.

Service here is fast - to cater for the hungry masses, it's really the only way. In the line we go, and out we come with their famous dim sims (steamed and fried) and a spring roll.

The dim sims were not only noticeably bigger than your average fish n' chip dim sim, the same can be said for quality and freshness. Have your pick, either straight out of the steamer, or piping hot out of the fryer, these dim sims are the perfect pick me up before, during, or after your shopping trip. 

At $1.80 a pop and guaranteed yums, there's really no need for second thoughts - only second helpings.

confessions of a little piggy was invited as a guest of South Melbourne Market Dim Sims

South Melbourne Market Dim Sims
Cecil St
South Melbourne, VIC

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Yo-zen

Yo-zen. [yoh-zen] - noun. An altered state of consciousness reached only when body, mind and yogurt become one.

Just a hop skip and a jump away from Camberwell station, this self-serve froyo can be found smack bang in the middle of the hustle and bustle that Camberwell brings.

We were warmly welcomed in by the team behind Yo-zen. As a family run business, the close-knit bunch of passionate froyo-goers are all about making the best of the best.

After sampling all 8 flavours (they're more than happy for you to try before you buy!),  we were ready to choose. 

For me, from the moment I tried the Macadamia and the Toasted Coconut, I was sold. Swirls of silky, buttery, nutty macadamia froyo, then twisted with tropical toasted coconut (with actual coconuts bits !). The frozen yogurt was satisfyingly creamy, with none of that icy business. Crowned with various fresh fruit, my cup was a perfect balance of nutrition and flavour.

T also enjoyed Macadamia and Toasted Coconut, and also adding in a generous helping of rich, melt-in-your-mouth Salted Butterscotch. Of course, she had to have some Asian marshmallows (mochi) in there too.

For the fussier eaters, you've not been forgotten - with French Vanilla as your go to flavour. Made with soy bean and vanilla bean, it's 98% fat free, gluten free and lactose free. Interesting flavours like dragon fruit also made an appearance, and I cannot wait to see what other flavours they plan to bring out in the future.

With loyalty cards and infectious smiles going all around, its hard to how you wouldn't become a loyal smiling customer yourself. 

confessions of a little piggy was invited as a guest of Yo-zen

Yo-zen

736 Burke Road 

Camberwell, VIC

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