Niche on Bridge
571 Bridge Road, Richmond
03 9421 4787
Breakfast, Cafe, Coffee, Coffee and Tea
$$
Food
- Blueberry and Ginger Pancakes
- Potato Rosti and Corn Fritter Stack
- Spaghetti with Chorizo & Mushroom
- Middle Eastern Omlette
- Frozen Monkey Smoothie
- Good Morning Smoothie
The Good
We started off with the Blueberry and Ginger Pancakes and weren’t disappointed. With a good height, the hotcakes were appropriately fluffy and spongey without being airy. Topping the two-high stack was a huge scoop of strawberry gelato that was refreshing and provided a slight tang. With an abundance of blueberries and ginger mixed within the layers of the pancakes, coupled with a sweet maple syrup, the combination of flavours were not only unique but rather appetising.
We also enjoyed the Spaghetti. Loaded with lightly charred chorizo and soft juicy mushrooms and cooked in a tomato based sauce, the pasta looked like it packed a punch in flavour. With the spaghetti cooked to al dente, this provided a good contrast to the soft mushrooms and the crispy chorizo. Despite appearing bold and flavoursome, we felt that it fell slightly short on taste and could’ve used minor adjustments such as garlic and chilli oil to enhance the flavours.
The special of the day, Potato Rosti and Corn Fritter Stack, was an amazing sight to behold. A thick and firm layered potato rosti sat at the bottom, and between each upper layer of corn fritter was a generous amount of smashed avocado. Topping it all off was a perfectly poached egg that resulted in creamy runny yolk. Despite each component being very appetising and enjoyable, we felt that the crispness of the fritters weren’t nearly crispy enough to balance out the denseness of the potato rosti. Overall, the dish was enjoyable and was just the perfect comfort food, though a little more contrast in textures could’ve really brought the dish to life.
The Mediocre
While we did enjoy the Middle Eastern Omelette, we felt that the execution was flawed. Beautifully wrapped in a blanket of scrambled eggs, within we found a mixture of cheese and pulled pork. Unfortunately the pork was drier and tougher than expected. However this was remedied by the smear of house made hummus which provided an earthy and refreshing twist to the dish.
The Bad
Nothing.
The Verdict
Niche on Bridge is a modern all-day eatery that dishes out enjoyable dishes for the Richmond and Bridge Road locals. While not overly adventurous, the menu provides an interesting and creative Mediterranean twist to traditional staples. Coupled with the fresh, quality ingredients and good execution, you’ve definitely got yourself a decent feed at an affordable price.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
Definitely. With specials changing almost daily, we’d undoubtedly be back for more of their interesting creations.
Penguineats would like to thank Niche on Bridge for inviting us.