**Rolled roast pork with seasonal vegetables**

Kudos to Au Péché Gourmand, the "sin of gluttony," for its name and the originality of its modern bistro cuisine, if not for its location.

This is a compact, and not always cosy, restaurant — at times the dining tables struggle to accommodate the accoutrements of even a modest meal. Counter seats overlooking the vermillion-themed open kitchen would be our preference in future.

The food, however, is very good. Careful use of exotic spices and occasional Moroccan culinary influences, as exemplified by the couscous with lamb and tomato stew, add excitement to a menu of bistro staples. Favourites were the creamy foie gras terrine with fruit chutney and the fabulous rolled roast pork with seasonal vegetables. And yet, those with hearty appetites may find that much like the small tables, the petite portions of some standout dishes preclude both sharing and gluttony…

Au Péché Gourmand

03 6276 6332

**Monthly Burger - peach and uncured ham caprese**

**Monthly Burger - genovese with snap peas and asparagus**

In a neighbourhood brimming with restaurants, Burger Mania’s inviting open frontage, decor (retro Americana is kept to a minimum), friendly staff and menu of delicious “hand crafted” burgers and beers set it apart from the surrounding competition and rival gourmet burger joints.

We usually ignore the sandwiches, pancakes and salads in favour of core competencies such as the bacon or avocado cheeseburgers, although the more extravagant cherry and platinum (100% pure wagyu steak) burgers are also superb; as are the eclectic “monthly burgers” — past favourites being the foie gras burger, peach and uncured ham caprese burger, and genovese with snap peas and asparagus burger.

Along with the succulent patties and eccentric filling combinations, the pairing of these burgers with a variety of ales, stouts, lagers and "specials" (pineapple ale, anyone?) is pleasing. The IPAs, such as Revolution Brewing Company’s Anti-Hero IPA, are generally excellent and compliment the burgers best of all, although if you can’t make up your mind the three-glass taster sets are a great way to experience several of the often potent brews without falling off your chair.

Burger Mania

03 6277 4221