30 Aug Ascot Food Store, Moonee Ponds

I took A2 to the airport this morning and after saying our goodbyes I used the opportunity to visit the Western suburbs for a change. I rarely come here so there were many cafes to pick from. In the end I chose Ascot Food Store. Also because, well, there aren’t many cafes open at 7am on Sunday morning.

The cafe has a retro feel, especially in the back rooms which feature bright orange furniture and funky light fixtures. A quaint hodge-podge of items are used in the decor too – water is served in anything from beakers to wine bottles.

The 62-degree eggs with brioche and pickled truffles were a tempting proposition, but I didn’t think I could handle its richness at that ungodly hour of the morning.

Apple Wood Smoked Ocean Trout, Freekeh, Roasted Cauliflower, Cress, Shredded Kale ($20)

Instead, I chose the smoked ocean trout to start my day on a healthy and nutritious note. The kale had a lovely, gentle sweetness, the trout had crispy skin, pull-apart smokey flesh, and, of course, I loved the cauliflower and freekeh on the side.

The cafe has a nice neighbourhood feel to it, and it’s no surprise that it’s popular, though I have to say I was surprised to find this many people up and running so early on Sunday morning.

Ascot Food Store
320 Ascot Vale Rd
Moonee Ponds, VIC, 3039
(03) 9370 2649