Ex Lion Tamer - Bendigo

Yesterday while waiting a couple of hours for a train from Bendigo to Melbourne, I thought I would grab a quick bite to eat. I stumbled accross 'Ex Lion Tamer', and though I didn't know it at the time, I was falling in love. I've been eating breakfast 'out' at restaurants and cafes for over 35 years. After that much time, I assumed I had already eaten the best breakfast I would ever eat. I was wrong. Ex Lion Tamer just blew my mind. EVERYTHING was brilliant. From the tunes (Prince) to the friendly but still efficient service, the coffee, even the **** Mary (made with tomato plasma (!) and 30ml of Lapsang Souchong tea as well as vodka and Spice) The food was stunning. Perfectly poached eggs (harder to get right than you may think) crunchy- outside-creamy-soft-inside hash browns, caramelized onion as a spread, an amazing chorizo patty, home made beans, divine field mushroom with hint of something (balsamic?) And crunchy-soft toast. Everything on my plate (and clearly, there were many things) was perfect and combined perfectly with everything else. I kept expecting something, anything, to be less than ideal. My expectations were dashed. It was an unexpected slice of heaven. After eating I was in a kind of shock that something could be so wonderful. I am a comedian and can at times be very flippant, but this stilled me. Think about that. I feel extremely grateful to have had this experience. I think this is may be why I have never wanted to die. Everytime I think I have had the best of existence, something new and amazing just stops me in my tracks. Life is trip and if we remain open, it is full, so very full of unexpected delights. As am I now.xxx

My initial impression was not great as they did not have any high chairs. This made eating with a 15 month old not very relaxing. However, the staff were very attentive, borderline over attentive and provided great service. The lunch menu was limited and whilst all the salads looked great, they were a little bland. The chicken burger and their chips were delicious. Hopefully by now they have sorted out some high chairs and are expanding the menu options. I'll definitely give it another go.

Tried the Japanese omelette for brunch and it was really good. Coffee was great and very friendly service. Menu provides good options and have a few specials. Will definitely be back.

Today I dined here with my daughter and mother-in-law and have to say it is the best food I have had in Bendigo. We all enjoyed the meal we had. Found it very reasonably priced and found the seating very comfortable. Staff were very friendly. We will definitely be eating here again.

Seems to be some issues with service and appropriate temperatures. I waited, without acknowledgement, for almost 5 minutes prior to being served. My warm friand was extremely hot and my coffee was barely tepid. Room for improvement...