Top Paddock, Richmond

So what's the big deal about Top Paddock which won The Age Good Cafe Guide Award 'Cafe of the Year' for 2014 and 'Best New Cafe' for 2013? A lot!

Upon entering Top Paddock, it is easy to see that the owners understand what customers want at a café. Firstly, generous portions of fresh locally sourced produce incorporating refreshing combinations of flavour which excite the senses. While waiting for a table, my friend and I were both salivating as waiters carried the most colourful plates of food, all presented with care and precision. Secondly, a large airy open space which is both comfortable, a sense of community and bustling with life! This café is suitable for all occasions - there are some long tables for the large groups, round tables for those corporate or study groups, intimate small tables at the back for a girly catchup or date, or a bench perfect for those dining alone. Thirdly, unique decor - certainly achieved through the quirky detail on the stools which are based on familiar parking signs as well as plants throughout the café.

I had the gin and lime cured ocean trout which came beautifully presented. The ocean trout had a crispy skin with a tangy fresh flavour and creamy texture. The sweet, slightly sour baby beetroots helped to cut through the fattiness of the fish and nicely combined with the melt in your mouth potato galette. I particularly loved the goat curd, adding to the freshness and creaminess of the dish. Eggs were poached perfectly with a flavoursome delicious runny yolk.

Gin and lime cured ocean trout fillet with pickled baby beetroots,
potato galette, poached eggs, leaves, goats curd & toast $20

 My friend had the special for the day: pine mushrooms on flat bread topped with taleggio cheese. I only tried a little of hers, very aromatic and packed a punch of flavour with the mushrooms and melted soft cheese. But to be honest, after a few more bites, the dish was very oily and overpowering from the cheese and the dressing of garlic, chilli and parsley oil. It was like eating a badly made garlic naan bread as the bread eventually soaked all the fat.

Mornington pine mushrooms on house made flat bread
with taleggio cheese and a garlic, chilli & parsley oil $17.50

We didn't order any drinks this time but the café certainly were serious about their coffee with an imposing coffee machine and three grinders perched on the bench. There was also the option to choose single origin coffee.

I didn't feel this café had the warm service I expected, probably because the staff were super busy even on a Monday. However, the the menu seems to have many exciting options I would be eager to try when I'm next in Melbourne!

Top Paddock

658 Church Street, Richmond

Weekdays 7am - 4pm

Weekends 8am - 4pm