Kallista Tea Rooms - Emerald

We don't usually book, but today was Easter Sunday. The Tea Rooms were as busy as most weekend days. Service and coffee were still very good.

Apart from its convenience for me, the restaurant offers a relaxed dining environment. I've never had a problem with staff, they've always been friendly and attentive. The menu is not extensive but offers a good selection often incorporating local and seasonal items. I've had no problem finding a wine to complement my meals.

Great place, we live close by, so pop in often, as family or with friends. Great friendly service, broad menu, cakes are fantastic. Licensed also. I highly recommend this one.

The location, coffee and service make this still our preferred stop for morning coffee on cycle rides into the Dandenongs. From here we can continue to Emerald, go to Monbulk and 'The Wall', or head up to Sassafrass.

Went to the Kallista Tea Rooms expecting at least 'good average' but left wondering why people flock to this place. Firstly I'll say there's nothing wrong with the service, not exceptional but certainly have come across plenty worse. We came with child in tow and the offering served up from the kids menu was flavourless and untouched by a hungry child that loves pasta. The most disappointing aspect was clearly the coffee. For a place that no doubt pumps out well in excess of 50 kg's p/w of coffee, the standard is terrible. There's plenty of places making a serious effort with their coffee that I'd happily give my money to before going back to this place. Whomever they buy their beans from, clearly provide minimal support in the way of training. When paying the bill, I was asked how everything was to which I responded with basically all of the above. Despite this I was still charged full price. Bad PR I think. The setting is lovely, but overall very disappointed.PS. The scones are an exception