ALBURY cafe Penny Black has re-opened in Volt Lane this week.
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Owner Leigh Esler opened for business on Tuesday in renovated premises, which was previously occupied by Monica’s Cafe.
Penny Black head chef Matt Richter said he was excited about the possibilities to serve patrons in the Albury CBD.
Having worked at The Bended Elbow, The Star Hotel and the Carrier Arms Hotel, Richter said he relished the foray into the cafe scene.
He said he was very happy with the summer menu, which was inspired by local produce.
“It’s my first cafe gig and I’m having a lot of fun doing it,” he said.
He gave up a job as an accountant to pursue a culinary career.
Having settled in West Albury with his wife Lauren, Richter has established a large vegetable garden.
FEELING PECKISH?
What's your favourite summer dish?
Poke bowl with tuna, avocado, watermelon, cucumber and black rice.
What's your favourite season?
Winter. Summer’s not very pleasant in the kitchen!
What are the staples in your pantry now?
Quality cultured butter and I like to pickle anything. My favourite is a pickled slaw.
What is your earliest cooking memory?
Making biscuits with my Grandma. She always made Christmas biscuits when I was growing up at Wagga.
Which six people would you invite to dinner?
Gordon Ramsay, James Hird, Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant, Heston Blumenthal and Leigh Esler.
Which ingredients do you grow yourself at your home?
I’ve got a massive vegie garden in West Albury with tomatoes, cabbage, lettuce and herbs. The heat knocked it this year but I’m ready to do it again hardcore next spring. We’ve got avocado trees, lemons, limes, olives, oranges and figs.
What is your favourite foodie ritual?
Making really nice toasties at home with Bicycle Baker sourdough.
What are you bingeing on TV? If anything.
The Orville
What did you have for dinner last night?
Ravioli
What are you drinking?
I got a 20-litre barrel of Morris Topaque for Christmas.
Details:
Penny Black,
18/520 Smollett Street, Albury
Phone: 0490 444 140
Open Monday to Saturday, 7.30am-4.30pm.
