I occasionally find myself walking through a shopping centre, fascinated by the offerings of a foodcourt.
Some fast food operators are taking a leaf from the food truck revolution, inspired to innovate with at least one item on their menu – a signature offering, if you like.
However, on the outer wings of most shopping centres, there are some quality cafes. And sometimes I find myself wanting something a little more … well, relaxed.
Maybe it’s the guaranteed seat, a proper plate and cutlery, some background music, and table service that makes a cafe that little more peaceful than the bustle of a foodcourt.
Little Spoon at Hyperdome opened just over 12 months ago, and the owner has since opened Sugar Baby next door.
The beauty of this lies in the synergy.
Whether you want loaded waffles with ice cream and maple syrup from the sweet shop, or a woodfired pizza from the Little Spoon side, the choice is yours.
While the brekkie pizza, pictured, is spectacular with its two fried eggs on top and priced at less than $20, this was a healthier lunch trip.
“Our famous” fish and chips were tempting, but with calories in mind, the warm chicken, avocado and haloumi salad seemed the right option.
With a drizzle of orange dressing that made its way through the salad, there were no regrets. Chicken was tender, and grilled in small bite-sized pieces.
The addition of black sesame on top is a great touch.
A similar version with calamari, either crumbed with rice flower or grilled, is also available, albeit with nuts and spicy mayo instead of the orange dressing.
The menu has most lunch time favourites, including burgers, a steak sandwich, toasties and an all-day breakfast menu – including a traditional spicy savory mince on sourdough with a couple of eggs. Yummo.
Rosti, Spanish omelette, baked croissant with spinach and hollandaise, or a “big spoon” breakfast make the menu as creative as it is tasty.
And it wouldn’t be a good cafe without great coffee and drink selections.
If you can find your way past a milkshake from Sugar Baby, there’s a number of other options including all the coffees, iced tea, frappes and my go-to pick-me-up, a mango or mixed berry smoothie.
Prices range from $15 for a decent-sized meal, up to around $24. Service is terrific, and food top notch cafe fare.
