Barton Milk Bar — Restaurant in Melbourne

Amidst all the challenges faced by Hospitality during COVID, there have been some feel-good stories. Having met Cat and James Laskie a decade ago at their first cafe together, I was well aware of this brother/sister duo’s ability to draw a crowd. Just before COVID struck in 2019 they decided to open Barton Milk Bar in a quiet residential street of Hawthorn. The original milk bar was about to hit its 100th year in existence when the pair took on the space. They soon gutted it out and had no idea what lay ahead for them, but like many in hospitality, did what they knew best. Barton soon became the community hub as millions of Melbourne’s went into lockdown. Being isolated was certainly one of the biggest challenges, so having a destination point where people could take a moment to reconnect and honour the significance of the circumstances we all found ourselves in was a godsend. Speaking with Cat, I’ve come to realise just how much the community felt a deep connection with the Barton team, who quickly became their constant during such uncertain times. It really does give strength to the notion that community is key, and no (wo)man is an island! With the beginning of a new year and a new way of life, Barton has now moved to their originally intended dine in menu, which is served well by the addition of a liquor license. Many came to celebrate with a glass of champagne once lockdown ended, while others enjoyed an Aperol Spritz in the Parisian style outdoor dining area.

Inside Barton’s looks a little different to what you’d expect. There’s a richness in old world charm, thanks to the dark timber panelled walls, marble top bar with brass fittings, open fireplace, and space expanding mirrors.

The coffee here is as strong as the community connection, and works a treat with Oat milk.

The breakfast/lunch menu features all the classics, from Eggs Benny to Smashed Avo, with the local favourite being ‘The Hawthorn’, which showcases the chef's house made hummus served with vibrant greens and a...

I came today with my partner to have lunch, my first impression was wow, great coffee shop in a nice corner, unfortunately that was about it, we grabbed a table and waited 10 minutes and not service was done so I had to go inside to order (clearly understaffed for the size and how busy it was) the food came just 10 minutes later, we order a couple of sandwiches which were 18 dollars each, to my surprise that they were just a standard sandwiches, not salad, no chips? I have the same sandwich in another great coffee shop for 12 aud and it comes with salad, That is extremely overpriced. I know inflation is kicking hard, wages are crazy and so on, but charging 18 dollars for a standard chicken sandwich which does not come with anything else feels like a rip off. I am a hospo worker and I have empathy but i am also aware of what we make and sell and that is just not acceptable. The staff members were super nice and they were trying their best! So much to improve, I might come back one day to see if...

Was so excited when I heard this cafe was opening around the corner from work...I have tried it twice in two days as I really wanted to support this new neighbourhood local. Had lunch there yesterday- service was friendly and reasonably prompt but sadly I got caramel instead of the chocolate milkshake I ordered and it had barely a hint of caramel in it - please don’t skimp on flavour! Now to the prices- I know it’s Hawthorn but charging $5 to add bacon or $3 to add an egg to an $18 burger is just price gouging! If I wanted both, you are asking me to add essentially 50% of the original cost of the burger on top again. It just makes it too expensive for what was an ok burger. Also, $4 for a small coffee and $4.50 for a medium is on the high side too. I’d love to keep supporting you but unless you re visit your pricing, I don’t think I will be able to afford to. Overall,...