Miss mat — Restaurant in Melbourne

Miss Mat is a Turkish inspired cafe located on Carlisle Street, in Balaclava. 🇹🇷

After seeing their logo, I asked - What is the story with the crossed out “Mr”? Was it a relative, celebrity, fictional character? Staff will probably have a bit of fun and tell you a different story every time about what really happened. 😂

But in a nutshell, it was previously a cafe called Mr Mat, the owner left to go overseas, and friendly, bubbly staff member Clara bought the business and took it over with the team. She is an absolute gem, you will only get the best service and conversation. She even brings out complimentary Turkish Tea to everyone. 🥹

All of the drinks are great, especially their loose sticky chai, green juice and “Snickers” shake. The menu features options for breakfast and lunch all with a Turkish twist wherever possible, even if it’s some pickled turnips or pomegranate in the salads.

⭐️ Menemen - delicious! Probably my favourite that I’ve tried. Sometimes they can be bland, this isn’t one of those times! It’s a special atm but i think it should be on the menu! ✔️ Spinach Gozleme - filling is spot on, but could’ve been crispy. ⭐️ Lamb Skewers - juicy and full of flavour. The dish is little on the smaller side. Hummus is fantastic! ✔️ Labne Poached Eggs - essentially Turkish Eggs, not overpowering, lovely fresh simit bread to pair. Always a winner. ✔️ Pistachio Croissant - filled with pistachio mascarpone which so good. Because it was later in the day it wasn’t super crisp anymore. Clara used to work at Publique Bakery baking, she sources from there every morning and finishes baking them in house. ✔️ Folded Pistachio Pancakes - with a knafeh filling, a sweet/savoury dish. I dont know why but these flavours feel so nostalgic to me.

There wasnt much to fault with our brunch, we were so happy with all of the flavour, innovation and vibrant presentation. Theres plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Given they have only been operating for a few months they are doing such an incredible job, definitely one to add to your list!...

Miss Mat Café in Balaclava is full of heart. Once “Mr. Mat,” it became “Miss Mat” when owner Clara, a former staff member, took over and made it her own. The place is so Warm, welcoming and full of local charm. It’s the kind of place where regulars feel like family and newcomers are greeted like old friends. The menu is Turkish inspired with some incredible traditional recipes & some spins on traditional brunch food.

Here’s an overview of what we had: 🍃 Spinach & Cheese Gozleme – Crisp, golden, and addictive. The labneh on the side? Chef’s kiss. 💖 Manti – Little dumplings of joy in garlic labneh and Aleppo butter. Still dreaming about them. ❤️‍🔥 Chicken Shawarma Wrap – Juicy, tender, perfectly wrapped deliciousness. 🥚 Turkish Eggs – Packed with flavour, with garlic notes and textures that just work. The eggs were cooked perfectly 💓 Pistachio Pancakes – Stuffed with cheesy knafeh and topped with crushed pistachio, so indulgent, so good. 🥐 Pistachio Croissant – Genuinely one of the best croissants I’ve had in ages. Buttery, flaky, unforgettable.

This place is a total gem. The food, the service, the vibe, it’s all spot on. Bonus points: they’re dog-friendly too with little puppacinos!!! Definitely check...

This cafe is a must try when you are in the area!

Upon arrival we served with a delicious cappuccino and a mocha. We also got their turkish style iced latte and unique twist that’s definitely worth trying.

Moving to the food, I tried Labne Turkish eggs for the first time and wow, poached eggs over creamy labneh. The menemen with fluffy eggs, tomato, and a spice that takes your tastebuds on a trip straight to Turkey was next-level.The chicken that was in the chicken shawarma was tender, juicy, and the herby creamy sauce was so good, it was topped with salad. It also comes with fries. The Salmon Benedict was also great.That creamy sauce paired with perfectly toasted bread and the poached egg.

We finished the meal with a lovely hot turkish tea, the perfect finish to an amazing meal.

The staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive, with the owner making it all the more special! If you're looking for a cozy spot with incredible food and a welcoming atmosphere, Miss Mat Cafe is a must-visit.

The dishes we tried,

-Menemen and Salmon benedict (My favourites) -Labne Turkish...