Were St Cafe - Banyule

Modern, new, futuristic, state of the art that is not what you’ll find here. Instead, you’ll uncover a charming local eatery with wholesome food, earthy environment and an all round cool place to be. Some would call it eccentric. I call it “homely”. I reviewed this place 4 years ago rating it with 4 stars but a revisit on Sunday, I was totally charmed again. Owner Anthony and one of his staff Kalon are the perfect hosts and have created a vibe of laid back, local, funky with a touch of boho casualness. The tables don’t match. The chairs don’t match. The art is fun and quirky. The staff are cheerful and it was nice to chat to them about the evolution of #thewerestreetfoodstore The layout is inviting and drawing you in to enjoy a cuppa, cake or a meal. The menu is extensive and plenty of choices. Dietaries catered for and please advise if you have anything particularly you wish to avoid as the staff are very accommodating. I just loved the coffee ticket ordering system on the wall, so regulars can preorder their beverage saving time and making it efficient for everyone. (See photo) What did we order? 1: pancakes with berries and ice cream and a karma sutra chai 2: eggs Benedict with bacon and an iced latte 3: meat pie with salad 4: open BLT and a chocolate milkshake 5: Central Park bagel and a lemonade 6: another round of pancakes with berries minus the ice cream and a latte Food was very tasty, well presented and generous portion sizes. Total price $117! Oh that’s good value. It buoyed me to see people coming in ordering, all on a first name basis. This is not just a cafe it’s a community. It’s a safe place to come and fist over a coffee for an hour or chat with others. The local council are making a park next door so while still under construction we sat outside with our dog and soaked up the mild summer weather. Anthony spoke of the changes coming as council finishes the street works and I look forward to hanging out here again. Notes: disability access isn’t good but once the streetscape is improved so will accessibility. Toilet available. Kid friendly including a high chair available. Dogs are welcome and even encouraged so bring your fur babies. Thank you for a great lunch Were Street Food Store.

Called in for a very early breakfast this week. Had the fresh fruit, yogurt and muesli dish. It was well presented, but pretty underwhelming overall. Coffee was nice and service pleasant enough. Outdoor seating always nice. Just watch out cause some of the tables are uneven, but that adds to the cafe character.

Waiting for an appointment, I stumbled across this quaint cafe in Montmorency. Decor is retro, young people on the front counter were troubled with hand writing orders amongst themselves. It wasn't a busy morning, I was able to find a table next to the door which couldn't fit my car keys, water bottle and glass and scrambled eggs. If you are a hipster you may enjoy this, I once was but no longer. Ambience didn't thrill me, the shop area tiny and the mothers with their four-wheel drive prams plentiful. No thanks, I need my space.

I left my handbag in the shop a couple days ago with all my cards and some cash in my wallet, I couldn't believe that I had it back today, thank u so much. You are the best.

The best chai in Melbourne! Consistently delicious breakfast and lunch options, as well as tasty take-home meals. Yum! The staff are also very friendly and welcoming.