Short Straw

The Overview…

Food: Stacks on Waffles, Wild Mushrooms, Charcoal Charger

Ratings:
Food: 4.5/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Value: 4/5

The details…

Despite the numerous eateries in Hawthorn, Short Straw is one of those venues that seems like it’s been there forever (although it has really only been a few years), turning out its innovative brunch dishes created under the watchful guide of Chef Jose Chavez.

It’s tucked away down Mary Street so is away from the hustle and bustle of Glenferrie Road so has a relaxed and pleasant vibe. There are a few outdoor seats, and then seating for about 20-25 people inside, including a communal table and window bar. It’s minimal and bright, ideal to enjoy a low key catch up.

Staff were prompt and friendly – quickly greeting us and maintaining a cheery, helpful service throughout our visit. While it was later in the day, we were still feeling a brunch vibes so we opted for the wild mushrooms with a side of pork belly, charcoal charger and the stacks on waffles.

The mushrooms just have so much flavour. The chilli and garlic flavour is present, but mild, and the truffle cream sauce just works beautifully. We loved the accompanying crispy polenta and we added a healthy side of pulled pork as M.B. is a carnivore so he wasn’t loving the prospect of the vegetarian dish. The pork actually worked well with the creamy sauce and if you want something to fill you up, this is perfect. While not the most beautiful dish, this was easily our favourite – it’s Melbourne brunch in all its glory.

We also tried the newly added Charcoal Charger. While the oats themselves are creamy and fairly savoury – the wafers are super sweet, and with the marshmallows and oreo crumble there’s plenty to tip the flavour balance of this dish nicely. The poached pear adds a hit of much needed moisture, and the raspberry soy milk is a nice change from tradition.

Finally we tried the waffles, which while being a good dish, didn’t quite reach those high expectations we had for them. Having recently enjoyed the creative waffles at Collective, we had similar hopes for these, and while there was nothing was wrong with them – soft waffles, nice flavours with the sweet macarons and tart lemon curd – they just weren’t really a stand out. So while they look great, we’d recommend you give some of their newer or more creative dishes a go!

Everything else…

Website: https://www.shortstraw.com.au/

Address: 743B Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn

Opening Times: 

Mon         7:00am to 4:00pm
Tue          7:00am to 4:00pm
Wed        7:00am to 4:00pm
Thu         7:00am to 4:00pm
Fri           7:00am to 4:00pm
Sat          7:00am to 4:00pm
Sun         7:00am to 4:00pm

Parking: We actually hate parking in Hawthorn, but there is street parking near Short Straw if you can find a spot, and there are numerous nearby car parks but probably allow yourself a little extra time for parking.

Getting here on PT: It’s a short walk from Hawthorn Station or the 16 tram route (alight at Chrystobel Cres.

Disclaimer: We dined as guests of Short Straw, Hawthorn. Reviews are honest and based on our own personal experiences. We cannot guarantee things at a restaurant won’t change including, but not limited to, menu items and opening hours, so please confirm any details with the venue before visiting.