Out & About: Friends of Mine

Friends of Mine (506 Swan Street, Richmond) was recommended to me a month or so ago, and after only 2 visits has fast become one of my new favourite cafes in inner city Melbourne.

Normally when faced with a waiting list pre-coffee on a Sunday morning, my first reaction is to head somewhere else. But with food as good as this place, a 10 or 15 minute wait is more than forgivable. Especially when you can nab a coffee through the side window whilst you wait...

Not only can you expect a compliment on the back of your menu and amazing coffee, but a wonderful bustling atmosphere, beautiful rustic-meets-glamorous decor and super efficient service with a smile.

Last weekend Mr B and I caught up with the lovely James & Tré for brekky, with me bringing all the boys along for their first Friends of Mine experience. And I have to say they were all suitably impressed! We started of course, with a round of delicious creamy coffees....

And followed on with a most impressive breakfast spread...

(Mr Jones’ golden ‘folded’ eggs w/ fresh herbs + Holy Goat cheese on wholegrain toast - $12.90, add bacon for $4)

(Smashed avocado w/ thyme buttered mushrooms, marinated feta + torn basil on wholegrain toast w/ poached egg - $18.90)

(Jack + Jill’ – poached eggs, bacon, slow roasted tomato, avocado + thyme buttered mushies - $18.90)

(Our eggs benedict – smoked ham hock terrine, perfect poached googies, hollandaise + tincy wincy basil - $16.90)

We departed with full tummies and big smiles, with all three of the boys claiming they would be back. I think Friends of Mine has really struck a great balance for me, great crowd, great food and of course, the ever important great service. Just remember to hit the ATM before you arrive - it's a cash only cafe.

The simple things...

Sometimes the simplest things really are the best, wouldn't you agree? This particular dish is without doubt one of my absolute favourites, and no matter how bare my cupboard may be I always have enough ingredients to whip it up.  It is quick, very tasty and best of all, involves very little effort.

You can go right ahead and use whatever pasta shape and herbs (dried or fresh) that you happen to have handy, and I guarantee it will be a hit.

My standard combo tends to involve garlic, a tin of diced tomatoes, fresh basil and either penne or rigatoni. Simply crush 3 - 4 cloves into some olive oil in a hot pan, saute briefly then add the tinned tomatoes and half a can of water, season well with salt and pepper and allow to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. At the last minute throw in the fresh basil (or any other herb). Stir through your cooked pasta, then serve topped with grated cheese.

It really doesn't get much easier than that does it?