Arcadia
| Where | 193 Gertrude St, FITZROY 3065—View map |
Contact | 03 9416 1055 |
Website | — |
Open | Breakfast Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday 10:00am to 5:00pm
|
Payment | Cash |
Diet | Check with venue |
Seating | Inside and outside |
Kids | Welcome |
Pets | Welcome |
Close your eyes, spin around, and point
Francesca Fogerty 02 February 2010
I went to Arcadia after it was repeatedly recommend to me by a friend of mine. My friend lives in the area (doesn't everyone with an opinion?), and despite having numerous quality breakfast venues in the neighbourhood, Arcadia is the stalwart, the one that gets her out of bed on a Sunday morning.
I went armed with excitement running through me in the same way the first coffee of the day does.
I sat down, and the first thing I heard was the girls at the table next to me talking.
Blondie asked Brownie what she recommended from the menu and then queried whether she should instead get something from the cabinet. Brownie responded as follows:
"You can close your eyes, spin around and point, and I promise, whatever your finger lands on will be amazing. I've had everything here and have never gone wrong".
An ambitious statement, but one that made me drool with excitement. To test the theory that "everything" is amazing, I've returned on a number of occasions.
And, to be honest, not EVERYTHING is amazing. But a most items are - like the spicy bean and Jalapeño loaf with poached eggs, chorizo, guacamole and capsicum salsa. Not as spicy or hot as I'd anticipated, but it was wholesome and soothing and the offering of a Bloody Mary on the side identifies it's devotees as those with a hangover (presently company excluded of course - my behavior is exemplary!).
All servings are rather large, which suits me, as I am a glutton. Each meal is well executed. The field mushrooms with thyme, spinach and goats cheese - a variation that is seen on many a blackboard around Melbourne - is earthy and satisfying. Vegetarians are well catered for (if you like cheese) and the coffee is spot on.
But do you know what? The best thing about Arcadia is its proximity to Books for Cooks. If you have to wait for a table, which is possible, wander down and browse the little bookstore. It's a match made in heaven.