Elli's Belly

Food

• Classic Baked Egg
• Harissa Chicken Sandwich

The Good

We were treated to an absolutely delightful Classic Baked Egg. The eggs were cooked to a lovely semi-soft consistency, with yolks that remained just a little runny. Generous amounts of chorizo, spinach and vegetables sat in a remarkably fragrant bell pepper sauce, creating a rich and flavoursome combination. The accompanying focaccia sticks were especially welcome for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

The Mediocre

The Harissa Chicken Sandwich was enjoyable, though not quite as exciting as its name suggested. Tender, nicely cooked chicken was enclosed in soft, fresh multigrain bread, accompanied by melted provolone and tangy pickled cucumber. These elements worked well together, but the harissa aioli lacked the chilli kick we had expected, leaving the sandwich a little too restrained.

The Bad

Nothing.

The Verdict

Elli’s Belly proved a very pleasant Northcote lunch destination, with its richly flavoured baked eggs easily the standout. The focaccia and fragrant pepper sauce were particularly enjoyable, while the chicken sandwich offered good fundamentals without much heat. There is plenty to like here, although a bolder harissa would make the second dish more convincing. We’d happily return, especially for those baked eggs.

Would Penguin Eat Again?

Sure

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