Snow Pony
| Where | 95 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn, 3026—View map |
Contact | 03 9816 8911 eat@snowpony.com.au |
Website | www.snowpony.com.au |
Open | Breakfast Monday to Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:30am to 4:00pm |
Payment | Cash |
Diet | Check with venue |
Seating | Inside and outside |
Kids | Welcome |
Pets | Unwelcome |
Meet McSnowie
Francesca Fogarty 18 May 2009
Nobody likes a show off. But I think you'll agree with me, it's hard not to like Balwyn's new little prancer. Snow Pony is the younger sibling of the wonderful experience that is Porgie and Mr Jones in Hawthorn. And like all younger siblings, Snow Pony has obviously been showered with Mummy and Daddy's attention.
I was feeling a little 'precious' on the particular morning I went to Snow Pony. It was a combination of too many pinots the night before and not enough beauty sleep. I wasn't really coping. And my stomach was unsettled.
Then I met my friend, Mr McSnowie, an English muffin toasted with gypsy ham and creamy, dreamy scrambles. Now I've got a question for you - is it possible to not love a McSnowie? He was just sitting there, on the counter, waiting for me. "Hello" he said, "you look a bit tender. Why don't you eat me, I'll make you feel better". And eat him I did.
Once my stomach was settled, Snow Pony took to settling the rest of me. It's a simple space. Not much clutter, beautiful clean lines and the use of an uncomplicated colour palate created a blank canvas in which to show off the food that is presented with artistic flair. I could relax.
I followed my lover (McSnowie, not the real one) with the poached eggs topped by a red pepper salsa and dukkah. The red pepper salsa was velvety and sweet, it had a little kick in it and a hint of coriander. The hazelnut dukkah was fragrant and crunchy, a nice contrast. The tables had turned, I was back on my game.
I galloped forward, stealing bites of banana bread here, smashed avocado there. The banana bread was the standout, a piece of art in itself, a balance of colour and taste it was piled high with berrie compote, crushed pistachio and mascarpone. It was fluffy and crunchy - putting the stodge that is sometimes found at city coffee kiosks to shame.
The race was over. I may not have won it that morning (my boyfriend has an appetite that surpasses all others), but believe me, the journey was well worth it.
With me, and a few others chasing behind, I've got no doubt that this little pony will hit its stride and gallop with grace and style into the dress circle in no time.