Slowpoke Espresso — Restaurant in Melbourne

It was raining. It was cold. And we were hungry. Seeking respite from the weather and the need for food for our tummies we sought refuge into this delightful little cafe @slowpokeespresso on #brunswickstreet and wow, what an unexpected find. We sat on stools at the window at first, but then made our way to the large shared wooden table that begged for some company. The ambience of #slowpoke is warm and inviting probably due to the unique timber wall along with the small touches such as vases, lighting and the aroma of fresh coffee being prepared at the counter. The menu is simple and has been clearly put together with fresh produce in mind. A hot chocolate, an iced chocolate and a Vietnamese coffee were our drink choices today. I ordered the Slow Poke Mac and Cheese cooked with organic amaranth wth rice and quinoa pasta, aged cheddar and lemony greens. One of my girls ordered the Roasted Chicken sandwich filled with lemon mayo, chives, roasted walnuts and greens nestled between two lightly toasted slices of sour dough. My other daughter ordered the toasted ham and cheese that was generous with a thick slice of ham and again served between sour dough slices. While we waited for our meals, together we tackled #theagenewspaper crosswords. Service was friendly and the food was quick to be prepared and served by genuinely friendly staff. As you head to the rear of the cafe there are cute little nooks of tables until you get to the outdoor garden dining area - ideal for those warmer days. In a street with so many places to eat, Slow Poke is somewhere to not just be assured of great food and service but also a convivial atmosphere that will have you returning again.

#slowpoke #slowpokeespresso #brunswickstreetcafe #fitzroycafe #thewanderingreviewer...

It's been a while since I was here but I figure I'll drop a review.

Possibly my favourite café in Melbourne. They change their breakfast specials semi-regularly, and everything I've tried there has been amazing and subtly unique, from the muesli with herbs, to the perfectly balanced omelettes.

Excellent lattes, too. I would give details but again, it's been a while. Not the best I've had, but close (the competition is quite intense).

They have practically perfected the atmosphere inside as far as I'm concerned. Have not been out the courtyard, but I'm sure I can extrapolate from the inside.

All in all, an ideal place for breakfast. Trying to find an excuse to go back to Melbourne, and when I do, I will make sure to stop here.

(Disclaimer: my sample size of cafés for comparison is not huge, but also biased towards popular cafés in Carlton/Fitzroy. I am continually surprised that this place is not more crowded, but then I suppose I have never been out...

Being Fitzroy residents, we recently became captivated by this brilliant, local gem following glowing reports from our son and daughter-in-law for whom it had become the cafe of choice. Slowpoke Espresso is operated by a young, dedicated and enthusiastic couple, Duc and My. The partners perform the bulk of the customer greeting, coffee brewing, cooking and general food preparation duties. Their welcome is warm and cheerful, and the service prompt and impeccable. All selections from the interesting and varied menu are prepared deliciously by My who is a very accomplished chef. The excellent coffee never disappoints and the wonderful homemade cakes are an irresistible indulgence. Varied table options are available with the added attraction of a secluded courtyard for the finer weather and an open fire for cooler times. When you next visit the Brunswick Street/Fitzroy environs, treat yourself to a visit to this local...