Got a hunch for a good brunch? We Hobartians are spoilt – absolutely. But if you want a change from the street food at the Farm Gate markets on a Sunday in Bathurst Street, where do you go? Ha, just round the corner and into Criterion.
Today’s musical pairing suggestion. Brought to you by Mixtape Champs.
One of my followers reminded me, after I’d pointed out the delights of Merchant in Criterion, that Red Parka deserves a serious nod. And she’s right. I usually call in and find something there – designed, painted, crafted by the very clever Jennifer Cossins.
Red Parka
Her whimsical, and accurate, drawings of animals, birds, wildlife, find their way onto all kinds of gifts that anyone – old or young – would treasure. They are truthfully and thoughtfully produced, and I never cease to marvel at the range of gifts. Something for everyone? Pretty much.
Red Parka and Pooch
But today, it’s Sunday, market day, and I’m so hungry I could eat a horse between two mattresses and chase the rider. Or so my father used to say. The very clever Criterion Street Café beckons.
I have to add here, that this place is owned by the same team who’ve made their mark in Salamanca, with Machine Laundry Café. So expectations are high. And you know what? They’re met! The service is quirky, professional, hipster and slick.
Cri Cri Cafe
The interior is cool, casual, with an upstairs that’s light, airy, overlooks the street and some awesome street art. But we opt for the sun, and park beside some colour and greenery in little boxed gardens that protect us from the – er… road.
And the rest is really a bit of a rave. Jane, a cooking colleague and fellow foodie opts for the Lamb Sandwich – “slow roasted lamb, relish, aioli and greens” – $13. Great value, and a wonderful and unusual understatement of a really good sandwich. The relish is a fresh apricot chutney that matches the lamb, and the aioli? House made, and a small quibble – just not enough. We want more, please sir!
Box Gardens in Criterion
I dived into the CSC Waffles – “vanilla bean waffles, banana, peanut brittle, mascarpone, crispy bacon, topped with salted caramel”, $17. Oh my giddy aunt!!! This is my idea of heaven all in one dish. I would go back tomorrow and again just for that!
CSC Waffle
The coffees? Excellent – and I have no doubt that the standard of all others is high. They use Pigeon Whole bread, local produce and the they even offer “small serves available, less $3”. What’s not to love?
Coffee in the sun
These guys know their stuff, do it well, consistently, and keep coming up with food that just – well, just hits the spot. And the dollars? They’re in there too. Damn good value. A place I always sort of float away from, it’s that satisfying.
Chrissie
