Lauren D.
Yelp
As I walked towards Top Paddock at 12.45pm on a sunny Wednesday, it looked a bit like Noah's Ark - business folk gravitating towards it in twos (2 x publishing executives, 2 x fashion label head-office workers, etc). A newbie, but obviously already found a following.
There was a line-up for tables when we arrived, but within 2 minutes we were seated, water had been poured and menus distributed. Staff at Top Paddock are obviously keen to keep things efficient, which works for me.
The hero dish is clearly the soft-shell mud crab in brioche bun; as I perused the menu, several of them whizzed by me in the hands of spunky staff members, and they looked almost too good to be real. The crab was salty, beautifully cooked and balanced really nicely with a splotching of fennel, dill and lime mayo. Definitely something different and very tasty there.
My friend had the kingfish with avocado, fried egg and purple soft tortilla; kind of a deconstructed soft-taco situation. That was pretty good too; perfectly cooked fish, and a big serving. The dude next to me had the pulled pork on rye; definitely want for next time. We both had fresh juices, delicious not least for the barber-striped paper straws. Cute.
One thing to mention; it's not really traditional lunch fare. You wouldn't go there hankering standard lunch players, as they have the one menu from breakfast onwards, and it's a bit weighted towards (innovative) breakfast dishes. Still, the girl opposite me on the communal table was tucking into what looked like some kind of artistic take on porridge, for lunch, and she seemed happy.
Service is quick and attentive, and prices are reasonable for the quality. And they also have these pre-packed lunchboxes that look to be a great deal with a few small dishes plus a gourmet-looking juice and slice for dessert, for $15.
Verdict: Am around the corner so will be back. If I wasn't close by, would probably still be back. Top Paddock is allllrriiiiight.