Hatched

Hatched – 26 Evans Road #01-06 Evans Lodge

Hatched is a lovely all-day breakfast place situated along the narrow, green lane of Evans Road. Its popularity is evident from the fast-paced jockeying for lots in a treacherously undulating gravel parking area. However, patience and a good bit of luck will pay off in a truly delightful and fairly-priced meal from a menu that showcases eggs done in every conceivable shape and form. Besides, one particularly cute waitress didn’t detract from the experience either. A hearty breakfast for 3 came up to $56.50.

I opted for the brunch staple of Burly Benedict ($10 for one egg) which astounded me in every way except one. This rendition of the classic shattered many stereotypes, appearing closer to a topless burger at first sight with the poached egg perched pristinely atop a generous mound of corned beef. This was a brainwave for the rich egg mellowed out the salty beef so the distinct meaty and briny flavours shone alongside the creamy and curiously sweetish Mornay that was once again given a spin with a dash of tangy Worcester. Mealy potatoes jazzed up with syrupy balsamico and caramelised onions added an enhanced perspective to the glorious tumult of flavours. The only failing was an overdone egg with a near-solid yolk, perfection was so near yet so far.

The Papillote ($12) was an interesting take on the classic scrambled preparation with the fluffy eggs wrapped neatly in parcels of smoked salmon topped with chive cream. The aesthetic appeal of the vivid, vibrant colours aside; this was an artfully nuanced and harmonised product of flavour design. It was rich, creamy and balanced with the smokiness of the salmon resounding off the light and airy eggs.

The omelette mixture of the El Chorizo ($14) was short of cream in my opinion, lacking a significant dose richness and weight. This was compounded by a flat and deflated mouthfeel lacking any fluffiness whatsoever. The saving grace took on the surprising form of the accompanying sausages that were neither too spicy nor salty but packed just the right amount of juiciness and flavour.

The three of us didn’t want to leave just yet and ordered a Pancake Party ($10 for 3); what was possibly the best decision of the meal. These pancakes were deliciously thick, buttery and had a light sponginess that allowed the circles to soak up a truly delightful accompanying Sabayon sauce which outclassed the decent, traditional maple syrup in spades. They graciously gave us an additional ramekin of the light custard sauce at no extra charge.