Uncle Drew
23 Groom Street, Clifton Hill
03 9489 2077
Cafe, Coffee, Coffee and Tea
$$
Food
- Omlette
- Yuzu and Mirin Cured Salmon
- MEGA Hot Chocolate
- Baked Mushrooms with Halloumi and Thyme
The Good
The Omlette was stunningly presented and had flavours to match. Within the folded egg omlete, we found the sichuan pepper and cider braised pork hock incredibly juicy and flavoursome. The sichuan pepper provided good spice, yet without too much heat that overpowered other components within. This was well complemented by a flavoursome and slightly spicy sambal oelek and the ever aromatic coriander scattered throughout. All served on a slice of crunch toasted sourdough, this simple egg dish definitely satisfied the tastebuds.
The Mediocre
The Yuzu and Mirin Cured Salmon failed to impress on this occasion. Despite the amazing presentation, this was soon ruined by the yuzu that rapidly leaked out of the cured salmon itself. The fish itself felt rather slimey and lacked integrity, with an almost mushy sensation that didn’t offer much in terms of texture. Fortunately, the potato hash was much tastier, with a crisp, golden brown outer that gave way to a soft yet textured inner. This was served alongside a zesty wasabi mayo, which provided an interesting Asian twist to the dish.
The MEGA Hot Chocolate was definitely an impressive sight to behold. Topped with toasted marshmallows and a whole brownie, it was a feat in itself to dismantle and devour this monster. The brownie itself had a good chocolate flavour, though erred towards the dry side and was nowhere near as fudgey as we hoped. The hot chocolate itself was equally unimpressive, lacking in thickness and creaminess, feeling like any other powdered hot chocolate one can easily whip up at home. It’s unfortunate that the taste really didn’t live up to its looks.
The Bad
The Baked Mushrooms with Halloumi and Thyme were a huge disappointment. While we aren’t normally overly fussy with how sides are served, nor review them in that matter, these mushrooms deserve an exception. The alleged halloumi was anything but, with the texture of a cheap packet cheese and flavours to match. Seriously, plain old mushrooms by themselves would’ve been a million times better.
The Verdict
Nestled in the quiet neighbourhood of Clifton Hill, Uncle Drew makes every attempt to create innovative and unique breakfast offerings. While some items worked in their favour, others unfortunately fell short on expectations.
While much refinement is still necessary on some of these more creative dishes, it must be said that the arguably more traditional items like the coffee and the omelet were well-executed and tasty.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
Might give it another go in the future, but definitely won’t be rushing back.
Penguineats would like to thank Uncle Drew and Sophie McGrath PR for inviting us.