Hot Poppy Cafe North Melbourne — Restaurant in Melbourne

Been visiting here for 20 years. Great cafe, and the food is usually delicious. Hadn't been back in a year, so stepped in today. Two coffees and one mushroom toastie (all takeaway) - nearly $34. As we were waiting, my partner joked that the toastie would probably come out undersized too, as we've noticed this practice recently across different establishments. Sure enough, the toastie was tiny! And overall quite underwhelming. My inclination was 1 star, but giving 3 because of the tremendous track record. I think these cafes need to be careful. Too pricey and folks will likely (if not already) go out less, and also order less when out. There'll likely be an attrition of some places, and I consider the brunch scene is diminished from what it used to be...

Walked in and waited a few minutes before the manager stopped ridiculing one of the staff and acknowledged us. We asked for a table for two with a request to sit outside and were greeted with a blank stare and a motion to take a seat. The service was below average and the staff clearly had favourite customers, likely regulars.

The outside area is quite comfortable and the table assortments look lovely, however, it smelt like we were sitting in an aired out public restroom.

The food presentation was a little bit deceiving. Big breakfast was average, nothing to remember, same with the halloumi burger. Chips were bland and tasted like they’d sat in oil for too long.

All in all, not...

Went here for brunch with my father and my partner! The food was delicious, albeit a bit pricy. We had the blue swimmer crab omelette, the steak sandwich, and the chicken burger. All were super tasty! The steak sandwich came with significantly more chips compared to my partner’s burger lol. My father said his coffee was really good and was super impressed, however my hot chocolate was 50% foam and 50% lukewarm liquid in a small cup. Everyone was satisfied with their meals and the waiter! We sat outside which was alright - nice to be where it’s a sunny day. Overall, if you’re looking for a nice breakfast/lunch out and want to spend a bit, it’s an alright...