Frankie's Top Shop. — Restaurant in Melbourne

Update to Owner’s response:

It seems to me that the “better sustainable solution” you say you are working on is easy— don’t decide on a whim to put someone’s coffee into a takeaway cup when they are choosing to dine in. Simple!

I’ve visited Frankie’s frequently for 4 years and never had this happen. In fact, there used to be a sign at the till stating, “If you CHOOSE to have your dine-in coffee in a takeaway cup, you will be charged extra and the extra cost will go towards environmental groups in the area.” That’s quite a drastic jump isn’t it? From actively discouraging it, to randomly offering it when not requested?

You said a better option than my review, which is not ‘unfair criticism’, as you say, as it is simply the truth, would be to engage respectfully with staff. Ironically, a few days prior, I was dining in and saw a staff member make a smoothie and put a splash, roughly 5mls, into plastic takeaway cups and then passed them around to other staff to try. That day, I did engage respectfully and questioned why they would have used plastic cups, rather than glass, for a tiny sip of smoothie. Your staff member was very kind, acknowledged that this was wrong and informed staff.

So, when only a few days later, I had the takeaway cup experience, I decided to leave a review and not return.

My partner and I live in St.Kilda, and work in local cafes, and have done for 10+ years now. We understand the challenges that come with running a business, specifically cafes, but your response to my review is irrelevant, has no logic and is 3 months too late.

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Super disappointed to see the swift decline that has happened at Frankie’s since the new owner has taken over. We live around the corner and frequently came for delicious coffee and the friendly staff. Most of the staff have left, rightfully so, and some days they close without warning.

To top it all off, I came on Tuesday, was seated and I ordered my usual coffee. I was shocked, and so disappointed, to have it delivered to me in a takeaway cup. The staff member told me they put it in a takeaway cup for me so it would “stay warm”. Although I appreciate the staff’s concern for my coffee temperature, in today’s climate where single use waste is a massive problem, and as someone who owns a keep cup for takeaway coffees and actively discourages people from drinking out of take away cups for the benefit of the planet, I can say I will not return.

So disheartened to see them encouraging single use cups when people are dining in. What a waste, what a shame....

I absolutely love Frankie's Top Shop in St Kilda! It is a delightful neighborhood cafe with a super friendly boss who often takes the time to chat when she is not too busy. The cafe's namesake, Frankie the dog, adds a charming touch, and they even offer merchandise featuring Frankie – so cute! Love the green theme too!

So, it is a cafe, let's talk coffee. Frankie's Top Shop serves up a cup of pure perfection. The temperature is always just right, which sets them apart from other cafes in the area. And that Japanese soba salad they offer, it is a must-try menu. Simple, delicious, and bursting with flavor, refreshing too. I love the aftertaste in my mouth, so fresh.

The chicken schnitzel bread is a real winner. It's incredibly filling, and the chicken's tenderness is a highlight.

The staff here are not only friendly but also incredibly attentive, making your experience even more enjoyable.

The only downside is that the cafe is always bustling because it's so popular, but honestly, that's a testament to how fantastic it is. I highly recommend Frankie's Top Shop for a warm, delicious meal and a...

I’ve been a customer at Frankie’s for around a 2 years now. I would come by every morning for my magic and in-house made muffins. When the old owner was there everything was great. Service was fantastic and you really felt valued by the owner and her staff. Unfortunately everything changed from the beginning of this year. I assume when the new owners took over. The deck was out of order (no permit) I’m sure I heard they even forced staff to open before the council made them close it for a second time. Also the staff always seem unhappy so I can’t imagine the working conditions are great - considering they are always having to explain to customers that there’s no permits and bills not being paid so they don’t have half the items. I mean come on what coffee shop runs out of coffee for crying out loud. Unfortunately I don’t think I’ll be returning after an unpleasant final encounter with the ‘manager’??? Lyle? Liam? Leon?? Not sure but the owners need to make a difference fast before they loose the place entirely. It would be a shame for the...