Creamy corny goodness at Hylin, West Leederville

When it comes to breakfast in Perth, we're all a little spoiled for choice. At least that's how I feel. And while I know we all have different taste and pleasure spots when it comes to food, there's something very scintillating about trying new dishes, new restaurants or old chefs and new venues. I love food exploring and am very lucky to say that I've been able to meet some wonderful people along the journey that is Queen of Bad Timing.

Yes, my blog name is ridiculous, but I love it. There's sentimentality behind every syllable. And for those who know me, I treasure my friends dearly - they play a huge role in my life since outside of my parents I don't have any family in Perth. My friends are my family. I definitely wear my heart of my sleeve and have noticed that as I get older, some friends might fade off into the background somewhat but my closest friends continue to impress me at every turn of the corner.

I guess you could say I'm in a bit of a reflective mood... but I'm sure if you've read my blog before you'll know that I might talk non-stop about food, yet I try to share a piece of myself with you. And what you may know is that I'm drawn to creative types, to foodies and to people who just enjoy life. It's so easy to get pulled into darkness sometimes and I'm always really conscious to keep smiling, keep striving and to make sure that when I look back I have no regrets. It's really easy to lose our way, so staying focus takes time and effort... and in my case has refreshment stands along the path.

Recently someone who had stumbled upon my blog reached out to me to catch up for a bite to eat when my schedule was free. While I think a previous version of me might have hesitated, I was actually really eager to meet someone new, go somewhere new and to chat about all the things in life that I love like food, dogs and (usually) working in marketing.

After some deliberation on where we should meet up for our weekend lunch I finally landed on Hylin in West Leederville. I've been wanting to go since this little hotspot opened, and since we recently filmed some TV ads there for my work I realised I needed to take action. Heading in I was pretty nervous around how long the wait would be - I was hungry! But thankfully somehow the stars aligned and I arrived in time to scoop up the last two seats at the counter... definitely a case of good timing!

My dining companion arrived quickly and after some chatting we went up to the till to place our orders. First to come out were our smoothies ($7.50) - both flavoured strawberry and banana, though hers had the addition of acai for an extra $1.00.

Following on from the trend of mason jar presentation (which I am guilty of being a fad fan of), the smoothies were creamy and flavoursome. Quite filling though! I need to remember not to get heavy drinks when I'm eating, it always slows me down (and I am a very slow eater as it is).

I liked the serving size - initially I baulked at the price tag, but once the drinks came out I thought it was a very decent size and I struggled to finish it since I prioritised my food.

When it came to choosing what to order, there were three dishes that caught my eye. The smashed avocado, chorizo and creamed corn and the spanish beans. Since it was a relatively warm day I decided against the beans and then my dining partner ordered the smashed avocado. By process of elimination (slash I really love corn), my decision was made.

The smashed avocado ($15.50) is a simple dish but looks beautiful and fresh, with two thick cut slices of toasted sourdough, topped with the promised avocado, poached eggs, a side of rocket and a drizzle of what looked like some kind of house-made oil. 

I would have loved to see a bit more avocado on this dish though given it's the star of this dish - but outside of that all reports were positive, and there was a very satisfying rush of egg yolk spilling out from those perfectly poached eggs.

My creamed corn ($16.50) was a beautiful yellow swish of creamy goodness under a toasted ciabatta slice. On top there were slices of grilled chorizo, asparagus, a fried egg and a side of chipotle sauce. It was so bright and engaging to look at! (The natural lighting in there also helps). 

The creamed corn is delicious - having it with so much flavour is easy to convince anyone why it's easily one of my favourite ingredients. I definitely gravitate towards it! The chorizo is lightly grilled which is how it should be eaten. Too many places over char it, turning it hard and blackened, but this version was meaty and just a tiny bit spicy. A great addition against the sweetness of the corn.

My fried egg is gooey and the whites just set in place; the asparagus spears offering a satisfying snap as I bite down on them. So good! The bread looked tough initially but I was happy to note as I dived in with my knife and fork that a chainsaw for the bread was not necessary - thank goodness! It's often a risk with ciabatta or sourdough. I really liked the chipotle sauce too which was punchy and vibrant, tying in all ingredients to become a cohesive dish. 

I can't believe it took me so long to get Hylin but I can happily say it was worth the wait! I was really impressed by their offering, the fast and friendly service and the flavours. The decor is beautiful and the food is fresh but tasty. I'll definitely head back soon because those beans (and a few other dishes now plus their cronuts) are calling my name.