Highlight – Hidden little cafe
Lowlight – Long wait for food
Harissa poached eggs on fire roasted peppers with harissa butter and rocket
Banana bread with berry compote, fresh banana, crushed pistachios and spiced yoghurt
FOOD?
We actually attempted to visit Proud Mary after reading all the positive reviews on Urbanspoon. Even though it was peak time on a Saturday morning around 11am we thought we might try our luck. I enquired about the waiting time for a table and counted around 10 different names on the waiting list. As such we decided to give it a miss. I had a quick browse on Urbanspoon’s iPhone app and found Bluebird Espresso.
Upon entering the cafe it appeared to be quite full except for a few small tables at the front. As soon as we sat down we were asked if we would like to order any drinks. I decided to try the brekkie smoothie containing bananas, berries and honey cinnamon yoghurt. In hindsight I probably shouldn’t have had this considering I ordered pretty much the same thing for my meal.
I was keen to try the popular ‘Mr Crunch’ which is a ham and cheese toastie with bechamel sauce. Unfortunately (and surprisingly) they managed to run out of Mr Crunches as well as croissants by 11:30am. I then decided to order the vine tomatoes on sourdough as I was after something light. We were informed the wait for food would be at least half an hour. By then I figured I would be a bit more peckish so I changed my order to the banana bread. It was served with berry compote, sliced banana, a generous amount of spiced yoghurt and finally sprinkled with crushed pistachios. Even though I’m not a huge fan of bananas, the bread did not have a strong banana taste and the combination of flavours went perfectly.
The eggs with harissa butter were polished off quickly. Eggs were poached perfectly and the vibrant colors of the toasted capsicum and fresh rocket looked amazing on the plate.
SERVICE?
Staff are casual and really friendly.
AMBIENCE?
There appeared to be lots of locals and regulars. Love the eccentric decor and fresh tulips on each table. There is an outdoor courtyard with large share tables which would be great for Summer outdoor dining. Tables in the front half are small with just enough space to fit your plates. There are also a couple of tables out the front of the cafe.
VALUE?
Meals are cheap, averaging around $12 and no more than $15. Great value for money.
BOOKINGS?
Correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t think they take bookings here. Probably not necessary though, as I noticed quite a few walk-ins.
out of 10!
Bluebird Espresso
134 Johnston Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
03 9078 7047
FOOD CHEE 