West of Kin

New Vietnamese eating-house West of Kin delivers a big flavour boost for foodies in Braybook.

The sister restaurant to the successful Kin restaurant in Chapel St (which offers traditional Vietnamese fare), West of Kin offers Asian fusion cuisine focusing on locally sourced seasonal produce, all wrapped up in a ferociously fresh setting. 

The location is unexpected and instils excitement with lots of greenery on the outside with calmer hues inside offering sanctuary and a palpable sense of hospitality.

The Asian fusion cuisine has roots in traditional punchy flavours combined with a healthy and modern philosophy to suit Melbourne's discerning restaurant market. The menu was developed by consulting chef Sam Pinzone, who has earned his stripes from his time working under Neil Perry at Rockpool, Jacques Reymond and most recently as executive chef at the refurbished The Rose Upstairs in Fitzroy.

We loved West of Kin's dinner offering.

Entrees of kelp-cured kingfish, Jiangxi chicken bao and Yunnan-style lamb ribs were a hit. While all the entrée items were beautifully made, of particular note was the Yunnan-style lamb ribs. These were expertly prepared and had juicy, succulent flesh. The outstanding ribs were crusted with a flavoursome spice mix and were wonderfully tender.  

Larger share plates of mapo tofu and grilled baby barramundi continue on the trend of stunning dishes to follow. The mapo tofu was full of flavour. The baby barramundi was cooked to perfection and boasted a wonderful aroma from being grilled in a banana leaf. Together with steamed rice and the addictive xo sauce it was a very comforting dish.

For dessert, prepare to indulge and order all three! The visually attractive spiced panna cotta was a wonderful creation of melt in your mouth pannacotta and textural scorched fruit finished with an aromatic saffron syrup. Chocolate lovers will fall head over heels for the chocolate delice - rich and indulgent. The West of Kin trifle on the other hand is a masterclass in textural balance and great use of flavour. Each a welcome departure from the mundane dessert items usually found.

West of Kin is wonderful for locals and worth the trip for the rest of us -  an impactful, fresh, healthy and affordable dining experience.
 
Location: 17 Lacy St, Braybrook
Phone: 03 9317 7553
Link: http://www.westofkin.com.au/
Cuisine: Asian fusion