Order1: Cumulus Inc Breakfast- boiled egg, toast, preserves, yoghurt, and organic orange juice
Order2: Shakshouka- baked eggs with roasted peppers and marinated Persian feta
Order3: Madeline's filled with lemon curd
Three words to describe: Surprised, Delectable, Refined
Let me explain:
- Surprised- Not a local to Melbourne at all I weaved my way through the alley ways I was surprised to find the restaurant on a quiet deserted street. But like a cumulus cloud (which i assume it's named after) I entered the perfect shaped building, on the perfectly quiet street, and into the eye of the storm. You immediately get hit by the noise of busy brunchers, barristers behind the bar, and the sound of orders being translated in the open kitchen. Lucky enough to be seated at the bar, we watched the chefs at play.
- Delectable- Fresh out of oven, a cheeky little breakfast dessert, the Madeline's sweet citrus curd made my mouth water with delight.
- Refined but a little underwhelmed- Presentation was perfect, flavors were precise, but did not evoke anything exciting particularly the Shakshouka.
Meal highs:
- Madelines- Amazing.
- Preserved jam- So sweet and fresh.
- Persian Feta- A fan of cheese, this was melt in your mouth perfection.
- Fresh bread
Meal lows:
- The taste was a little underwhelming- I was expecting more flavors particularly in the Shakshouka. Originating from Algeria, Morocco, Egypt (and associated regions), I imagined the dish would be very exotic and a cumin taste would take over me. Similarly with the Cumulus Inc Breakfast, the flavors were average, there was nothing fancy with the yoghurt and the egg was simply hard boiled. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed the Cumulus Inc Breakfast, but I was looking to be blown away by flavor, I think this breakfast choice would have been better suited for business man/woman looking for a simple, well rounded, yet refined breakfast before a big day of meetings (which is perfect for it's location).
- Be prepared to wait for a table.
Service: As you would expect, very busy on a Saturday morning. Order a coffee(s) and relax to the sounds of the kitchen and the many conversations that surround you.
Value for money: It is a little expensive side but comparable to neighboring breakfast menus.
Would I return: Yes, most definitely for the Madelines. I would give it another go, perhaps try something different. I have my eye on the watermelon salad with strawberry, vanilla yoghurt and mint and the candied orange and raisin toast!! Sounds delicious!
OVERALL SCORE: 7/10
