The sun was certainly out and it was hot on the day we arrived. Upon entering, I was drawn to the cool wallpaper that acted as a backdrop to the main dining hall of the café. It had blended nicely with the subtle furniture and general décor. We had the opportunity to dine either in the cool air of the main hall or outside on the patio under the umbrellas. Given Melbourne’s short spell of a real summer, we had decided to consume brunch within some lovely sunshine.
There always comes a time in ones life when you know the best thing to do is saying no. Sadly, on this occasion it was to my long beloved friend, long black [$3.50]. Given that we were dining in peak heat, Miss SL and I quickly agreed on a smoothie, Rejuvenate – orange, carrot, lemon sorbet, lime and ginger [glass $6, jug $15]. Crushed ice combined with the citrus flavours resulted in a definite thirst quencher.
The menu at Follow the Leader had all of the usual suspects to keep any brunch-goer happy. I went for the safe option of Corn Fritters: smoked salmon, sour cream and salad of avocado, spring onion, chili, coriander[$16]. In terms of presentation, the corn fritters were nice and evenly shaped as they lay on a bed of salad. The corn fitters were fried to perfection providing the desired crunch with the batter not being to doughy. The sour cream and flavoured oil certainly completed the corn fritters and tying the dish together. It was a filling brunch that would satisfied most, but there was no outstanding flare.
Read more: www.brunchaddict.com
65 Glen Eira Rd
Ripponlea, VIC 3185