KEY POINTS:
Herald rating: * * * *
We came here because it was time for a visit to Palette art gallery next door.
Parking was available on the road in front and in the parking bay nearby.
We walked in and immediately thought the unlikely external facade belied its cosy interior. We loved the dictionary-style definition of vanilla printed in large type on the wall.
The most unusual thing on the menu was the stud muffin, described as protein-packed with spinach, crispy bacon, swiss cheese and roasted tomato topped with poached eggs ($12.50) Gluten-free muffins were available too. Another tempting name was "the whole nine yards". It was also nice to see the whole family is catered for, with a kids' treasure chest ($5) of chips, fruit, a cookie, drink and sandwich (honey, marmite, jam, etc). And, for those stopping for a coffee while walking the dog, there's a container of doggie biscotti on the counter ($1.50 for a bone-shaped treat).
We ordered savoury french toast - a nice twist on the more common sweet variety. It was filled with ham, spinach, swiss cheese, thyme and Vanilla's tomato jam ($13.50). Leanne was very pleased with her garlic thyme mushrooms on toasted ciabatta ($10.50), which she said was saved from being boring by the caramelised balsamic vinegar drizzled over it. A brownie ($4) and extremely large melting moment ($3.50) from the cabinet were delicious.
The service was prompt and friendly.
The coffee was just right.
We recommend if you come here sit in the comfortable armchair seats by the window if you are just having coffee, but with a meal you will need the full-sized tables.
Overall, we thought we will definitely be back to try some of the other temptations.
