Ask a local about Hutch Bistro and they will tell you this is a restaurant that rarely disappoints and they are a pretty clued up food lot around here.
Located on the top terrace of a shopping centre on the corner of Days Road and Kedron Brook Road,
there's plenty of action going on in the large carpark, however the restaurant dining area is well insulated from the hustle.
The restaurant has some indoor seating and also occupies an outdoor terrace so there is plenty of room to move and you don't have to listen to the next table's conversation.
Chef John was having fun in the kitchen on the night we visited and sent out a few tempting starters to get our evening off in style. It's hard to go past a tender scallop and crisp pork belly combination but the foie gras tastes were the top favourite for the night.
There were many choices that tempted on the menu but the potato gnocchi which came with a fricasse of wild mushrooms and green beans was selected by two of my group and we didn't regret. Those tender gnocchi pillows with a crisp fried exterior were definitely worth the calories.
The birthday boy went for the prawn linguini which was a singing combo of chilli, garlic, asparagus, herbs and lime. (opening photo)
Many of the mains are available in two sizes so you can enjoy them as an entree or just as a small main.
Our dessert was a tasting plate of several desserts and it was a fight, almost to the death, over it all.
With it's wide, open spaces and a family friendly attitude, this restaurant would also be a top pick for breakfast. There's a play area for children (open until 6pm) and a children's menu.
Ed+bK rating: 3.75/5 A surprisingly delightful, unassuming suburban restaurant with a chef who really knows his stuff. A favourite with locals.
Best tip: There's a Thursday night steak special where $20 will get you 200g of wagyu or 250gm of grilled rib filled with beer battered chips and salad.
Bottom line: Entrees between $8 and $21, mains between $26 and $38, dessert $12 to $13.
Disclaimer: Ed+bK paid for this meal.