Big Fig Cafe [Talbot, VIC]

... "exciting food that's a cut above the local competition which doesn't try to be something it's not!"


When we go out, we all have an idea about the type of experience we're seeking. It starts with the booking early in the week: were they friendly? helpful? Then you start thinking about what you might order: steak? Thai noodle salad? The night arrives and you're there smack on time. Instantly you get a positive vibe. After reading the menu the waitress points out the specials up on the board. You're overwhelmed by the choice but it's all very exciting. You order antipasto as a starter and spiced Moroccan lamb for your main. You're sipping your wine when your meal arrives; it looks the same as you imagined and it quenches that craving you've had for days.

When I visit Big Fig I feel like I can tick all the above boxes. The first thing that gets me in the mood for dining is the atmosphere; you can always be sure that Nicole and Fiona will have an eclectic mix of music subtely humming away in the background. The modern track lighting and kitsch 60s downlights also provide the right balance of brightness; not in your face and not so bright as to reveal your deepest and darkest secrets. Other diners are usually an interesting mix of 'human curios', who are scattered amongst the few, neatly-arranged tables inside. In warmer months 'the curios' tends to spill outside for a spot of al fresco dining, which brings a 'Brunswick Street-like' feeling to the often quiet streets of Talbot.

Tonight I order the anitpasto [$7.50] and the lamb kofta [$18.50]. Other items on the menu worth noting include: Vietnamese rice paper rolls and the 'bangers and mash'. We start off inside sipping our chilled Sauvignon Blanc, but it's still 35 degrees plus and I'm starting to feel uncomfortable. As soon as the sun goes down we move outside and enjoy what little breeze there is. Antipasto arrives. It's a neat presentation of prosciutto, Italian cheese, artichoke hearts, olives, various other bits and bots, and some lightly toasted Turkish bread. The portion is generous but probably a touch too big for a starter.

After half an hour or so the lamb kofta arrives; it is presented like series of 'meatballs'. Lightly pan fried and surrounded by stems of freshly cut cucumber. In the middle is an eggplant and garlic 'dip'; it's served on a bed of rocket with scattered black olives. It's a classic combination: the lamb's complemented by the saltiness of the olives, the eggplant and garlic add a soft texture and spice to boot, and it's nicely balanced by the cucumber. I only wish there had of been some spicy chili accompaniment with lashings of freshly-cut coriander. Nonetheless, I enjoyed this creative spin on a fairly old fashioned staple.

Big Fig can always be counted on for wholesome, exciting food that's a cut above the local competition which doesn't try to be something it's not! Recommended.

Rating: 8/10

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Big Fig Cafe
4 Camp Street, Talbot, Victoria
ph: 03 5462 2115

Dinner: Fridays & Saturdays
Lunch: Saturdays & Sundays
Breakfast: Saturdays & Sundays [all day]

Alcohol: BYO