POP-UP FOOD REVIEW

by A. Tablehopper

Well, I’ve been asked back, as the consensus was my first food commentary was favourably received. The team did ask me to remove the rating system, as it could appear I am putting the eateries in competition with each other. That wasn’t my intention, but I am happy to leave them out.

So, this month, in line with inflation/cost of living, I am reviewing two cafes rather than three! I am essentially an ‘average joe’ who enjoys good food, not a food critic by profession, so I won’t be using fancy terminology, just my own.

I have not been paid to promote anyone – I am simply sharing my opinions on the venues for service, presentation/flavour, ambience. So, if you have wondered about visiting either of these places, here is a food snapshot for you.

MONICA’S - 11/43 Maple Street, Maleny

Service: Order at the counter and take your number. I was greeted with a big smile and a very helpful member of staff. My food and pot of tea arrived within 10 minutes, and the waiter also offered to bring me some water. I sat in the window seat, which has a wide wooden custom-made table, and watched the world go by. The chairs were comfy too.

Presentation/Flavour: I chose the Potato and Feta Hash Cakes, which came with smoked salmon, herbed sour cream, cherry tomatoes, rocket and toasted seeds. It looked inviting and was, quite simply, DELICIOUS.

In fact, it was a sensory flavoursome explosion from the first bite! The combination of creamy, salty potato and hash cakes with a light crunchy coating, along with the zest of lemon juice, peppery rocket, a smooth sour cream herb sauce and sharp tomato all worked together perfectly.

I had asked for a poached egg on the side as I wasn’t sure how large or filling the portion would be. Turns out, I would’ve been fine without the egg, but still, the addition worked for those who like an egg in the morning.

Ambience: The place was buzzing. Customers outside at every table enjoying the morning sun, inside a mixture of solo diners with their coffee and brekkie as they focused on their books and devices, other groups having catch-ups and plenty of laughter. I didn’t head upstairs, but it sounded busy, and I’m not surprised. This is a great spot, full of light, high ceilings, cool slate floor, lots of plants, fresh décor and friendly people.

Conclusion: Fresh décor, fresh food and consistently busy – Monica’s is definitely worth a visit!

FRANKIE’S – 2 Blackall Street, Woombye

Service: I must admit, I have frequented this charming little venue a good few times now, sometimes for food, often for their great coffee. The charismatic owner, Bec, is a delight to chat with. She has such a passion for her café, and judging by the amount of regulars who come in, she has clearly made this place a community hub. You will always receive a warm welcome at Frankie’s.

Presentation/Flavour: I went for the Seasonal Rosti, which is described as ‘vegetable rosti, grilled halloumi, beetroot and fennel purée and pickled vegetable slad’ (I presume this is a term for the amalgamation of coleslaw and salad!), and as I often do, I asked for a poached egg.

Well, let me tell you, asking for the egg was a mistake, because I was STUFFED by the time I finished. And what presentation – it was quality restaurant level to me (yes, I have been to a fair few over the years), even with my additional egg, which no doubt detracted from Chef Jade’s considered aesthetic placement. Sorry Chef!

The beetroot and fennel purée had a creamy, rich flavour with a hint of sharpness, and complemented the salty halloumi and crunchy vegetable rosti , plus the zing of the pickled ‘slad’ gave the dish an extra lift.

Ambience: Always welcoming, with music playing that makes you want to sing along and, being a smaller venue, you can watch the chef and baristas at work. The long, tall bench-style seating inside means customers often talk to each other and the staff in the shared space, and there is a feeling that everyone enjoys working and hanging out at Frankie’s.

There is a patio area out the back with a few tables, plants and fairy lights, and a new high roof to protect you from the sun, plus more seating will be happening out front, once the new Woombye streetscape is complete.

Frankie’s is also very active on Facebook and Instagram, where you can see a selection of their meals and sweet treats, and get a sense of the warm personalities behind the aprons.

Conclusion: If you want to feel at home in the hinterland, head to Frankie’s.