This is what Cafe dining is all about. Located 100m from Altona Beach on Miller’s Road, this cafe exemplifies how to create a place that not only attracts regular locals but visitors as well. On Easter Saturday, we came for brunch and were treated with golden retrievers at the outdoor tables soaking up the sun as their owners chatted over coffee. Inside we were invited to take a seat and given menus to peruse. This modern, clean design with nice touches such as shelves, books and even timber tables gives brings warmth to what could be a stark space. There is a courtyard at the rear which is protected from the wind but today we wanted to view the machinations of this funky place. The menu is abundant with fresh food options and it’s nice to see that they source much of their items locally, whether that’s the local dairy to the plasterer whose done some reno work. We ordered the Eggs Benedict with pulled pork and the fritters with a poached egg. While they we were being prepared our drinks arrived. The English breakfast tea was served on a gorgeous timber board but it was the stunning handmade sea grass blue pottery cup that caught my eye. Such a nice touch. The iced chocolate was good and not overfilled with ice. Meals arrived quickly and everything was superb. Couldn’t fault anything. Whether it’s the lovely blue water bottles or the mural on the wall, this place has ambience that epitomises a good cafe. Staff were efficient and helpful. Nothing was too much trouble. Dietaries are catered for - just let the staff know what your needs are. You can dine in or takeaway. Plenty of cakes, slices, muffins and even sandwiches to choose from to eat on-the-run. Note that they don’t use plastic straws! They also have woollen blankets for those cold days and you’d like to sit outside. Highchairs available for the little ones. They have ‘storytime’ here on Thursday’s which is held at the rear courtyard. Lovely space for kids to play with their toys. There is one small step into the cafe to I’d say it is wheelchair friendly. Stroller/pram friendly. Parking is pretty good out the front. Take note other cafe owners - this is how you set up a beautiful space with great food. Well...
Read moreI went for breakfast this morning and I was extremely disappointed. I ordered poached eggs on toast with hollandaise sauce and a small cappuccino. totalling $24.50. Sadly the sourdough toast was so hard and dry I could hardly cut it up let alone chew it. There was no butter on the toast and only one small slice cut in half. Eggs however were cooked to perfection. Half way through eating I found a hair which was disappointing. I know I should have told the waitress but she was so nice and friendly I didn't want to embarrass her or my friend who was paying for my breakfast as it was my birthday. Apart from that my other friend works there so I was uncomfortable to make a fuss. I have to say the coffee was excellent at least but poor value for the price overall. I understand that the cost of living is high and restaurants are struggling but i think one small piece of toast and 2 eggs for $16 is way too much if you come away feeling hungry. Sorry guys for the bad review but I just wanted to be honest. This is constructive feedback to help you improve and raise your standards to previous owners. I recommend you go to The Birdcage in Altona the breakfast is twice the size and cheaper better value for money.
Reply to your message: Yes I am a genuine person, I live in Altona, my friend Jo use to be the cook there and I was served by a student from South America. Why would i go to the trouble of writing such an in depth review otherwise. The breakfast i ordered was on the menu, I asked for hollandise as an extra. My friend ordered your french toast. We sat out the back in the courtyard. I hope this response identifies that I am real. Thanks for your offer to come back but I think I will pass there's better places in...
Read moreMy winning streak is over!
The location is beautiful, right on the corner of Altona Beach, cramped between homes. However, the food subpar at best. I ordered the chilli scrambled eggs based off the reviews I have read myself , I only saw good things until it was presented in front of me. At first glance, it’s presented beautifully but the sourdough was wholegrain and nothing on the menu stated I was getting wholegrain sour dough so that ruined everything! The eggs were absolutely flavourless and stringy. From past experience, scrambled eggs are fluffy and creamy, delicate on the tongue but these were like chewy stringy chicken to describe them.
My partner ordered the burger to which was not even served with a side, it didn’t say there was but to be given a small fist sized burger for their price point that had a sweet bun and tasted like “American food”, I expected more!
Such a disappointment especially with the good reviews from others!
If anything it has the atmosphere of casual boring dining. Amazing staff! At least the...
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