"Under New Management" the sign said. My wife and I looked at each other and sighed. "Oh no ... change is never good", I said. "Oh you never know", my wife said. ... But you do, don't you. Change of a 'mom and pop' business, especially one that was generally pretty good, usually means cutting costs and reduced service and quality as the new owners cast their critical eye over the outlays without really understanding the short or long-term results of cutting them. Like long-term customer loyalty and first impressions from new customers. The coffee here seems to get worse every week (bitter and acrid tasting without a couple of teaspoons of sugar). With the French run "layers bakery" only 20 metres away (great tasting coffee with a smooth blend), it's only that it's not open on Sundays that I bother coming here at all. Now the hours and staff have been reduced as well. I used to get up early and ride down for a 6:30 coffee, which was great, but now they don't open until 7am and today, a 7.45 am arrival on Sunday was greeted with only 2 staff (one barista and one cook), with no-one to serve customers and the chairs still stacked up inside waiting for customers to move and lay out around the tables themselves. The new owners have improved the upstairs area a lot, and it's now a good place to sit, drink, eat and relax - but you still need customers. Who knows, it might be that the new standard of poor service and high prices for lower quality in Perth will mean the place continues to thrive anyway, but we'll be moving on. It's not like Subi doesn't have plenty of alternatives. PS. I hope the new owners have good insurance because as you can see from the photos, elderly customers are carrying their own tables and chairs outside to sit at (it's 7.40 btw). Maybe after the first lawsuit from a back injury the owners will staff the place...
Read moreThe café always appears busy, with people sitting outside chatting and enjoying their time. We usually grab our coffee and pastries from Layers, but since it was closed on Monday, we decided to give this place a try.
When I approached the outdoor ordering station, the barista stared at me without any greeting and continued making coffee. It left me feeling confused and unsure if I was supposed to order there. I eventually walked into the shop to place my order instead. (There are two counters—one outside, possibly for quick orders, marked with a tile that suggests it’s the ordering point.)
I chose to keep it simple and ordered a toastie for $8.90 instead of a full breakfast. It was served hot, which was good, but the filling was disappointing—just a thin slice of ham and perhaps two slices of cheese. I could barely taste the ham.
Overall, the service and food experience wasnt great. I understand how challenging it can be to run a business, but I believe there’s room for improvement, especially in creating a welcoming first impression for...
Read moreA Subiaco Favourite – Warm Vibes & Fantastic Food at Café Café!
Café Café in Subiaco is an absolute delight – a local favourite that never fails to impress. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed by friendly staff, a cozy atmosphere, and the comforting aroma of great coffee and freshly prepared food.
The menu is full of delicious options, with something for everyone – from hearty breakfasts and fresh salads to mouth-watering sandwiches and daily specials. The ingredients are always fresh, portions generous, and presentation spot-on. Their coffee is top-notch too – smooth, rich, and made just the way you like it.
What really makes Café Café stand out is the genuine care and service. The team is attentive, personable, and always happy to accommodate. Whether you're popping in for a quick bite or settling in for a long catch-up with friends, you’ll feel right at home.
It’s no wonder this place has such a loyal following in Subiaco. Highly recommended for anyone looking for great food, great coffee, and even...
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