a northern suburban breakfast treasure

Jackson Dodds, interior

I’ve mentioned before that out my way (northern greater Melbourne), there isn’t really much in the way of snappy breakfast places, but discovered another place not too far from my end of town, right at the termination of the 112 tram’s route. The little eatery is called Jackson Dodds and it’s on Gilbert Rd. Again, actual suburb is contentious – I’ve seen some say it’s in Thornbury, some say it’s in ‘Rezzo’ (Bogania for Reservoir, I believe). I’m personally inclined to place it in West Preston because that’s where the tram route says it finishes.

Location aside, it has fantastic breakfast and brunch options. The first time I went there, I chose to have kedgeree. There was no room in my belly for the toast provided. The rice was topped with mango chutney, and had smoked rainbow trout as well as a quartered boiled egg. I would have liked the rice to be a little spicier. But goodness, it was so good. I have never seen kedgeree on a menu anywhere so was quite excited to see, and try. The chutney is a little sweeter than I’m used to (the chutney my father has is usually more sour rather than sweet) but it’s probably suited to a more Western palate. Mmm, just thinking about this dish has my mouth watering. You need to try this.

kedgeree

The next time I went, with someone in tow, I agonised over the gorgeous menu options, but decided upon the pea and haloumi fritters, with tomato chutney and beetroot leaves. This is probably one of the most exciting brunch dishes I’ve had in a very long time. I couldn’t actually taste the haloumi, but totally didn’t mind – the peas were just out of this world. Imagine sweet, fluffy fritters. The chutney was sweet and had a little bit of chilli for kick. Personally, I love beetroot leaves as I find them really flavoursome. And then a side of bacon! Truly, this dish could do no wrong. I couldn’t stop thinking about it all day. It looks gorgeous too.

pea & haloumi fritters

Equally impressive I’m told, was the dukkah eggs. They smelt delicious and wonderfully fragrant with Middle Eastern spices. I love the way the poached eggs appear encrusted in sesame and various spices. Partner said they were similar to the ‘lean green’ eggs dish at nearby Pearl Oyster, but even better.

dukkah eggs

I also have a really soft spot for the crockery used for tea. It’s like they chose the best stuff of its kind available at the op-shop, or Savers.

retro crockery

This place is unbelievable value for money – nothing is over $15 and the food is just phenomenal for the price. There are so many other things on the menu that I’m dying to try. It’s sometimes a little hard to get the attention of the staff and it understandably gets very busy. Even if you live closer to the city, it’s so worth the trip! So, when are we going? I am itching for a reason to return, and show it off to friends.

Jackson Dodds on Urbanspoon

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10 thoughts on “a northern suburban breakfast treasure

  1. Billy

    Looks pretty awesome! But, urm, I’m guessing the place is called Jackson Dodds? Because of the tags…. you’ve somehow managed to omit the name of the place in your actual post!

    Reply
  2. Neets

    “location aside” … don’t be an arrogant prick!! don’tcha know that rezzy is actually “north north fitzroy” on the make? wow, you make it sound like we’re the boon docks or something. oh, and it’s “unbelievable value for money” … no shit, sherlock! get back on the other side of bell street or i’ll get my reservoir dogs onto you!

    Reply
  3. gem Post author

    Dear Neets,

    Feel free to contact us so you can write a review for the site.

    Also, I live on the “wrong” side of Bell Street. Don’t set your Rezzo dogs on me because my arsenal of Mill Park skanks will be more than happy to set you straight. You do know where Mill Park is, right?

    Much love, Gem.

    Reply
  4. Katrina Higham

    Just for the record, it is “Boondocks” – one word….

    And ‘cha is not really a word.

    Please feel free to contact us too if you wish to head to ST KILDA for a review of OUR place too!

    Reply
  5. Amos

    Looks good!

    Someday ineffectual people will get the fuck over themselves, until then…

    Neets says………………………………

    Reply
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  7. Kman

    Try T.H.E sandwich!!!! Tomato, hummus and grilled eggplant, with spinach leaves on toasted Turkish bread. If you’re hungry, hung over, sick, any if that….this is the solution to all of those problems. Beat sandwich I’ve had in a veeeeeery long time!

    Reply
    1. Gem

      Dammit, was just there on the weekend and totally didn’t have that! I’m a bit sad to see the Cronulla handshake’s no longer on the menu!

      Reply
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