Project 281
281 Albert Street, Brunswick
03 9080 6119
Cafe
$$
Food
- Salmon Fillet Burger
- Pulled Beef Benedict
- Caramelised Pear Hotcake Turnover
The Good
We were off to a great start to our meal with the Salmon Fillet Burger. The open burger featured a chunky fillet of salmon that had a beautifully crisp skin. The meaty and juicy protein was nicely paired with a delightful Yuzu kosho mayonnaise, as well as a crunchy and tangy slaw. Served in a fluffy charcoal bun and paired with some fries, this was certainly a tasty and satisfying fish burger with a uniquely Japanese twist.
We then dug into the Pulled Beef Benedict. Topped with two perfectly poached eggs, the rich and creamy hollandaise sauce dribbled down onto a bed of tender and juicy pulled beef. The brisket was simply divine, marinated a slightly sweet sauce and effortlessly melted away in your mouth thanks to a good blend of lean and fat. All served on a thick cut sourdough that perfectly soaked up all the sauces, this dish definitely left us licking our lips long after.
We rounded off our meal with the Caramelised Pear Hotcake Turnover. Served with stunning presentation, the giant Hotcake filled the brim of the plate. The Hotcake itself was incredibly fluffy and light, with an airy yet spongy texture that mopped up the slowly melting ice cream on top. Paired with a fragrant ginger citrus syrup as well as crystallised ginger that offered an incredible crunch, the balance in sweet and spice, as well as soft and crunchy textures really brought this Hotcake to a whole new level. Delicious.
The Mediocre
Nothing.
The Bad
Nothing.
The Verdict
Having recently celebrated its first birthday, it is encouraging to see that Project 281 has continued innovating and serve up creative and satisfying dishes that combines Japanese influences with traditional brunch dishes.
With lines out the door on a Saturday morning, it’s no surprise this trendy Brunswick cafe is a food destination and welcomed by locals alike.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
For sure!
Penguineats would like to thank Project 281 for inviting us.