Quick Chop! L'Atelier Gourmand

L'Atelier Gourmand - 135c Goodwood Road, Goodwood

This post was written by Mirko. For other brunch related posts click here.

Out and about on a sunny weekend, what else to do but enjoy the weather and have some brunch. I was near the city and told of L'Atelier Gourmand by a friend of mine. I hadn't been so thought I would give it a go.

L'Atelier Gourmand is located near the Capri Theatre and occupies a small interior space with a few benches for outside dining. My friend and I opted to dine outside given the fantastic weather. Approached by the wait staff we were provided with menus which had brunch, lunch and dinner options...and free wi-fi!

After perusing the menu, I asked the waitress if she had any recommendations and was directed to the Tarte fine Printaniere (Thyme spiced homemade sable pastry with caramelised pear, walnuts, blue cheese, prosciutto and rocket).

Tarte fine printaniere - $15

When the waitress mentioned this to me, the combination sounded interesting and I wasn't looking for anything heavy so gave this a go. The pastry was short and savoury (from the thyme). The combination of ingredients provided different textural elements - the short pastry, creamy cheese, crunch walnut and the slightly soft pear.

The pear itself was poached well. It wasn't too sweet and still retained some bite to it which made it pleasant to eat. The sweet pear combined with the cheese, walnut and salty prosciutto all worked well together. What I will say is that blue cheese is an acquired taste and does come through strong in this dish - so if you are not a fan, maybe steer clear.

When first presented with the dish I thought it was a little small for the price, however, the blue cheese is quite rich and therefore the size was just right - any more and I don't think I would have been able to finish.

Crossaint a la Francaise - $15

My friend had the crossaint. Nothing spectacular about this dish however the crossaint pastry was flaky and buttery and the ingredients inside were nice.

Latte - $3 (approx)

Top it off with a latte and it was a great brunch on a great day. Friend had a flat white and agreed that it was a great coffee. L'Atellier Gourmand use Veneziano beans, and when combined with Paris Creek milk, they make for a well balanced coffee. Whilst the latte art isn't perfect, the milk is smooth and fluffy and the coffee has great depth.

If you are in the area, give L'Atelier Gourmand a go.