My coeliac dining buddy wasn't disappointed with the wide range of GF options, and opted for the Hola Benedict ($19.50) from the all-day breakfast menu: a crispy potato and chive rosti with pan-fried chorizo and soft poached egg with extra bacon ($4) and halloumi ($5). His only complaint was that the bacon was shoulder and not streaky, a preference that was outweighed by the generous chunky cubes of halloumi. My Breakfast of Champignons was a taste sensation, the mixed mushrooms mouth-wateringly delicious, cooked in a creamy balsamic with manuka-smoked bacon, pesto and organic ciabatta ($18.50). Sadly there was no option for an avocado side so I went for the halloumi instead. We were spoilt for choice with the great range of freshly baked organic bread to choose from, including vegan breads, a wheat-free pumpkin rye, sourdough and gluten-friendly wholemeal loaf. My freshly pressed orange juice, noted as "small" on the receipt, was just the opposite, presented in a large jar with a handle and totally satisfying, and worth every cent of the $7.
SERVICE & OTHER STUFF
We were impressed by the efficient and friendly staff; we didn't have to wait long for our food and could easily have stayed longer had it not been for other diners ogling our table. Other pluses? The laid-back feel, the indoor/outdoor flow, the extensive menu including smaller bites for children, the free-range menu, the tasty sweet treats in the counter display made by the pastry team and, of course, the award-winning bread, baked daily and also available to take home. There is parking nearby at Milford Mall or in residential streets. Being near the beach, you can work up an appetite before heading to the cafe, or walk it all off afterwards.
