POP-UP FOOD REVIEW

by A. Tablehopper

Eudlo General Store - 9-11 Rosebed Street, Eudlo

I am an ‘average joe’ who enjoys good food, not a food critic by profession, so excuse my lack of fancy terminology! I have not been paid to promote anyone – I am simply sharing my opinion on the hinterland eateries I visit, for their service/ambience and presentation/flavour.

An impromptu meeting meant I found myself in Eudlo recently and saw that the Eudlo General Store has undergone a transformation. (I know, I’m late to the party, but I’m not in that area much!)

Airy, bright, with wooden floors, Bentwood chairs, and a tempting menu, I was pretty pleased to end up here, although I reckon a few more plants and pics would cosy it up a bit. There is outdoor seating as well, to watch to the gentle meandering of locals along the street or kids playing in the park over the road – definitely no hustle and bustle here!

You order drinks and food at the counter, and we were welcomed with a smile. Our lunch came within ten minutes, and was made to order, so we would’ve been happy waiting longer if need be.

I had the Salmon and Potato Rosti with dill crème and poached egg, and my companion had the Cauliflower Falafel with herbed tahini and cauliflower tabouleh.

Mine came with ‘julienne’ slices of radish, and a sprinkling of chives, dill and coriander, and the presentation was like a work of art. As for the dill crème, I’ve not had one this good in living memory! Just the right creaminess and gentle dill flavour, which perfectly complemented the fish and egg, and the slightly salty rosti with its crunchy coating was the ‘comfort food’ base to make the whole dish work.

The Cauliflower Falafel was made from scratch and had the right mix of crunchy outer and warm, hearty centre, plus a fresh, green tabouleh bed of goodness, with the herb tahini adding another dimension to the flavours. It looked elegant and inviting, and was just the right portion size to keep you going until dinner!

I found out the chef there, Lanie, is well known in this neck of the woods, having had her own catering business and time as a chef at Homegrown in Palmwoods. Her attention to detail and thoughtful ingredient combinations are certainly all over the menu here, along with the good ol’ ham and cheese toastie, the Eudlo Reuben (corned beef, sauerkraut and Russian mayo on rye) and a homemade granola bowl.

On the counter we also saw pretty impressive looking freshly-baked pies, plus sweet treats and pastries, like Portuguese tarts, homemade chocolate brownies, and gluten-free strawberry and almond cake.

We are spoilt for choice in the hinterland, but this is a welcome addition to my café-worth-a-second-visit list!