Runcible Spoon - CLOSED

Overview

It may be off the beaten track and down a small side street, but Runcible Spoon, occupying a small space in what was the old Weston biscuit factory, will have to try harder if they're endeavouring to go unnoticed. The inner-west crowd have definitely not flouted this one, especially given the challenge faced in nabbing a spot here on the weekends.

While the cosy interior has limited seating, there is plenty to look at. Floor-to-ceiling shelves are teeming with cookbooks and jars full of spices — a good sign they know what they're doing in the small kitchen. Outside undercover, the concrete space has been spruced up with cute table embellishments and green plants.

Don't expect the all-familiar egg and bacon breakfast here. Co-owners Alex Watts and Nick Watney have quite the impressive CV between them and this shows in the unique menu that's inspired by Thai influences. And make sure you arrive hungry because you're going to want to try a few different dishes. It could possibly cause a serious decision-making dilemma. There's always next time though, right?

A definite favourite has to be the Thai-style fried eggs ($14 or $18 with pork belly). It may look like the most unattractive meal you've ever ordered, but appearances aside, this dish is amazing. Served with rice, salad and a spicy nam jim chilli sauce, it could be the hangover cure of the century.

If that seems a bit too hectic for breakfast, other options include granola with stewed rhubarb ($9.50) or crisp potato rosti with poached eggs, roast tomato and bacon (or avocado) ($16.50).

Around for lunch? Runcible Spoon offers some serious flavour combinations that might at first seem overwhelming, but several glances at neighbouring tables will convince you otherwise. The spaghetti with Italian sausage and chilli tomato sauce ($17) tastes like it should've been dished up in Italy, with perfect al dente spaghetti and a flavoursome sauce that isn't too full-on. A chicken salad with tahini, currants, green beans and harissa ($17) looks delish, so does a zucchini, ricotta and mint parfait ($16).

And to wash down your meal? Try a fresh juice ($5.50) or a mango smoothie ($6) that will be blended with a hint of nutmeg. What about the coffee, you ask? Try some fine Golden Cobra coffee ($3.50) that's been expertly brewed by barista Oli.

An impressive line-up of dishes, friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make Runcible Spoon the ideal spot for your autumn morning breakfasts.