Despite burning my entire tongue yesterday to the point where eating is barely enjoyable, the chicken and tomato roll at A Taste of Eden was one of the best things I’ve ever consumed. In fact, for the brief five minutes between the time when the waitress set the plate down on the table in front of me and when it was scraped clean, I completely forgot about my tongue burn as I devoured the beyond satisfactory sandwich.
The bread was out of this world: buttery and soft, but not to the point of being soggy. The chicken had been grilled to perfection in chili and sweet soy sauce, topped with a mixture of arugula and baby spinach as well as juicy tomato slices. On top of these ingredients was an intricate lattice grid of seeded mustard mayo sauce that added a creamy twist to the dish, as well as a dash or two of chili powder. I mean, it was “out of this world” good.
About 11 years ago, Matthew and Fiona Allen, locals both now in their 40s, opened their little restaurant on the wharf. Despite changes in the food industry, the couple’s restaurant is still going strong.
A Taste of Eden makes their meals with local produce and allows people to bring their own beverages as part of their dining experience, in addition to offering a take-away service option.
The fish used in the dishes comes from the boats in the wharf, but under law, they must first be processed in the co-op across the street, the last one currently remaining in Eden.
Another change that the restaurant has had to undergo since its original opening includes rules that prevent them from making their own mayo and other items on premises. According to Fiona, about six months ago there were regulations passed by authorities that the restrict the restaurant, as well as others, from using raw eggs in their ingredients. Because of this, they now have to buy the delicious mustard mayo from an outside source and then “add things to it to make it our own,” says Fiona.
They try to make as many of their food items in house though, including their yummy, fresh-baked bread. The menu also features prices suitable for all visitors, ranging from a list of $10 meals to more expensive and inclusive seafood platters to share for $100.
Fiona happily talks to me about their brightly colored, nautical eatery nestled in the wharf as she pats the little boy standing beside her, her grandson, on the head, giggles, and says, “He makes the meanest coffee.” As I leave, she even invites me to come back tomorrow for a morning coffee before I move on to the next town on our itinerary. Perhaps I will.
Sydney Travel Writers 2016 