Taste, nutrition and presentation are important factors when enjoying food, but taste is probably the most important. If it looks good but doesn’t taste good then it’s not going to be very enjoyable. With its name derived from the Swedish translation of the word “taste”, SMÄK prides itself on its focus on both taste and nutrition.
Hiding in the back streets of the quiet top end of South Yarra, the cafe is not easily noticeable, but this little gem is certainly not one to be missed. Given its name, there is no surprise that the interior has Scandinavian design influences. The elements of light timber, white painted furnishings, polished concrete, hanging light bulbs and a scattering of potted plants provide a brightly lit, clean and inviting space. Seating is a mixture of small tables, bar stools along the front window and open booths inside and some small tables outside.
The food menu is extensive with an array of all day dining options. Highlights include chilli scramble eggs, matcha waffles, breakfast salad, sweet corn fritters, the macro bowl (black quinoa, roast miso pumpkin, avocado, sesame, local greens, pickled red cabbage, boiled egg), spanner crab omelette and the almond crumbed chicken burger. As expected, the dishes are designed around their nutrition aspects without forsaking taste.
The almond crumbed chicken burger is a healthier variation of the classic fried chicken burger that we’ve grown to love, filled with apple and broccoli slaw and sriracha aioli.
Coffee is by St Ali with a blend and single origin espresso options. House made almond and cashew milk and soy milk, along with golden soy lattes and matcha soy lattes are also available. Tea by Homies, Kerol apple cider vinegar, Capi sparkling drinks, Bronx pressed juices and a range of smoothies complete the equally extensive drinks menu.
SMÄK lives up to its name with its tasty dishes that one would normally consider treats or cheat meals but are in fact quite nutritious.
SMÄK Food House
6 Daly Street, South Yarra
03 8560 2146
http://www.smakfoodhouse.com