crema and crumbs

revolver espresso, seminyak, bali

2013-11-21T09:35:00.000+08:00

The buzz : An ex competitive surfer from Narrabeen, Katie turned her experience working in cafes worldwide to create a relaxed space with an urban, grungy edge that has become the coolest coffee hangout in town. Stepping through the laneway entrance behind the fashion/lifestyle boutiques “This is a Love Song” and “Home” is a like finding an exclusive den. You feel as if you should whisper a secret password or execute a clandestine handshake, but you can waltz right in without any magic words and be imbibed in the hip scene. There are no windows to the outside, and after a while you forget you are in Bali and start to envisage stepping out onto the streets of Melbourne.

Mac screens of choice accompany vision sessions for the latest magazine spread, Indi surf label or secret spot. Short shorts, loose singlets, glorious manes of blond hair, tight jeans and dark sunglasses befit the creative hipster crowd. Staff are trendy and buoyant, flitting lightly through the space with a smile and flick of their fringe.

Revolver have quickly gained a reputation around the world for their perfect espresso shot and silky smooth milk, heated to perfection and poured into a beautiful rosetta. You can hear the audible sighs of love when one is placed in front of an itching coffee lover.

An original mix of art, paintings and movie memorabilia from the days of Elvis and Marilyn are tacked around, and vintage wares sit beside the metal chairs that have become ubiquitous in the Seminyak café scene this year. Records are stored into Coca Cola crates and spun on an old player that looks like it was dusted off from dad’s shed. The high ceilings have exposed foil insulation and wiring, with bare incandescent bulbs casting a warm glow.

Its simple breakfasts and light lunches are legendary, with chewy toast, wraps, salads and sandwiches under $5. Vegetarians are well catered for with offerings like The Boss (tempe wrap, lettuce, bean shoots, carrot, cherry tom, coriander & sweet chilli) and The Business (couscous, feta, roast veggies and rocket salad). Once I’ve secured my ristretto soy latte, I can’t go past the Smith & Wesson - mashed avocado on open sourdough toast with sweet roast tomatoes, basil and olive oil. Bang on.

*since taking these photos there have been a few small changes to the interior, and a new menu was launched yesterday; I'll be sure to let you know what's on offer.

beans : Caswells Indonesian house blend or a single origin special of the day

leaf : variety of loose leaf

soy : Australia’s Own organic (extra Rp5000)

caffeine free : fresh juice selection (Rp25,000)

latte price : Rp25,000

fork : caramel pop - dark chocolate and caramel with a biscuit base

spoon : Bang Bang - fresh fruit, crunchy granola, yoghurt and honey (Rp35,000)

knife : Le Pistol - thick brioche French toast

plate : Smith & Wesson, smashed avacado on open sourdough slices with deliciously sweet roast tomatoes, basil and olive oil (Rp35,000).

bowl : The Business - couscous, feta, roast veggies, pumpkin and rocket salad (Rp40,000)

footprint : bejeweled Havianas and well worn Sanuks

service : fast, energetic, eager to please

open : 7 days, 8am to 5pm

Jalan Kayu Aya (Jalan Oberoi) #3, Gang 51

behind This is a Love Song Concept Store and Home Store, or enter from the lane

T: (0361) 788 4968

Facebook page

balique, jimbaran, bali

2013-08-18T14:47:00.000+08:00

Balique Restaurant

Jalan Uluwatu 39

Jimbaran, Bali

The first time I saw an image of Balique in the Yak Magazine I was smitten by the vintage styling. Anyone that has the guts to use rusty tin on their façade has my applause. It has taken me a while to get out to Jimbaran, but on my recent Bingin trip I made it down the hill to see for myself.

The meld of Moroccan born Zohra Boukhari and Blaise Samoy from Belgium has already made an influence on the Seminyak restaurant scene, with the striking renovation at Khaima and the recently opened Bistrot on Jalan Oberoi, sister café to Balique.

The main street of Jimbaran is yet to be consumed by cafes and design stalls, and Balique sits inconspicuously near motorbike mechanics and helmet stores. The structure is a vast open sided joglo, revealed as you enter through the shuttered front doors and modest tin panels. White washed timbers and a checkered cement tile floor are grounds for hand-selected vintage treasures, European style furniture, art deco ornaments and a stunning array of light fittings. There are multiple seating options to suit your dining style, and I chose to sink down in a plump cushioned armchair beside a coffee table complete with magazines.

The extensive menu, like the team behind the venture, is a blend of French, Moroccan and Asian flavours. The food has gathered high reviews, however I bypassed the tenderloin steak and couscous and went straight for the coffee frappacino; presented in a balloon glass and topped with thick cream. If you like dairy this would no doubt thrill you to the aorta, but I sucked the cold goodness from below and left a whipped puddle in the bottom of my glass. A vegan establishment this is not.

Balique offers a dining experience unmatched in Jimbaran and with its location close to the five star resorts I don’t doubt it is a favourite alternate to in-house restaurants. It doesn’t open until 11am, so it isn't a destination for early morning eggs benedict and coffee (you can find these down the road at Grocer & Grind). Go later for lunch, dinner or a cocktail, and let the eclectic soul of Balique welcome you with a touch of tousled glamor.

food photography & styling workshops

2013-02-06T18:08:00.002+08:00

I am very excited to announce that I will be teaching two workshops in Brisbane next month, hosted by the team at Locale Italian Cafe.

Are you a writer, blogger, traveller, foodie or culinary professional with an itchy shutter finger and a desire to capture café culture, critical caffeine moments and delicious Italian food? Then join me for two intensive one-day food photography and styling workshops on location, fuelled by coffee, Sicilian pastries and lashings of enthusiasm. No previous experience needed, and all types of camera devices including iPhones are welcome.

If you aren't in the Brisbane area but know someone who is, please forward them the information about my workshops. Contact me for bookings and information, and let me know where you would like to see the next one.

little stove, bicton

2012-11-17T16:28:00.000+08:00

Little Stove

103 Harris Street, Bicton, WA

beans : house blend 100% Arabica dark roast, or Turkish stovetop with saffron & cardamon
leaf : loose or herbal $4.00 pot
soy : yes, extra charge
caffeine free : fresh juice
dunk : melting moments
fork : gluten free chocolate & orange cake
spoon : breakfast trifle of granola, berry compote & yoghurt $9
knife : homemade crumpet with stewed rhubarb, ricotta & honey $15
plate & bowl : roast pumpkin salad with red capsicum, sundried tomatoes, feta, pinenuts, “boozy” dates, spinach & rocket $20

footprint : volleys or sandals
latte price : $5.50
service : casual, friendly, acknowledge regulars
open : 7 days, 7.00am to 5.00pm

buzz : Deep in the southern suburbs, Little Stove is an outlier on my usual Freo area radar, and it was through a friend living in the area that I was introduced to this suburban gem. It is handy to the Sunday Melville markets, not far from the river, and well within the leafy boundary west of the freeway. It boasts easy parking, quiet streets, and the feeling that you would get a friendly hello from your neighbour when you strolled by with the paper.

The clientele has a local flavour and the community has embraced the transformation of this former corner store into a meeting place for mums with bubs, retirees, and friends that want to catch up without having to head into town. The cafe is dog and kid friendly, with room to swing a pram, and water provided for Fido.

Little Stove have done an admirable job transforming the basic interior into a homely and bright space, decorated with mismatched op-shop finds, memorabilia and giftware. A fireplace provides a warm glow in winter, the air-con is on for summer, and all year round natural light floods in through expansive windows. It was a giggle seeing Scrabble and World Book Encyclopaedias embraced as worthy display items, and the LP record placemats are up-cycling at its best.

The coffee is consistently good - as it should be for $5.50 (with soy). They offer a “text and take away service” that I believe is handy for time-poor individuals. A wide range of teas and herbal tisanes are displayed on the hand written blackboard, and the standard fat cakes call from the fridge. The plump melting moments with fresh cream looked divine, sitting demure as a bride under their fly veil.

Meals are presented with a casual hand, filling the plate diner style with little attention to detail. There are vegetarian options that could possibly be veganized, but it makes for an expensive salad sans feta. I didn’t order food, and while my girlfriend had a vegetable fritter, I was too busy bouncing a baby to take notes.

Little Stove is a dependable friend if you are in the area, or looking for an outing south of the river.

espress coffee house, kuta, bali

2012-11-15T16:14:00.000+08:00

Espress Coffee House

Jalan Dewi Sri, 101, Kuta, Bali

You wouldn't happen upon Espress as a casual visitor to Bali. It is away from the cafe hubs of Seminyak and Legian, on a wide artery road joining Sunset to Kuta Galleria and Ace Hardware. In other words, the ugly ass end of Legian. Its customer base is expats who are grateful for the location as they can avoid the mayhem of Jalan Oberoi, or the hell that is Kuta, and be sure of a carpark right out front. It is convenient and quiet, and the wall mounted iPads are a genius move for entertaining the kids while mum and dad focus on more important matters, like coffee. I was introduced to Espress by expat friends with three kids, and they will no doubt agree with me.

Starting with a Sumatran Arabica bean, a good espresso is extracted from their small machine. An espresso is only 10,000 Rp ($1), while a latte is more than double the price (22,000 Rp - $2.20). They didn't have soya milk when I visited, so I opted for a green leaf tea served in a heavy cast iron Japanese tea pot (22,000 Rp). The food menu covers the basics - muesli, bruschetta, panini, toast, crepes and ice-cream - with vegemite on toast getting the rosy smile from one satisfied three year old.

The small space is restrained and industrial, with a few well chosen fittings and an informal "mood board" of magazine pages and newspaper clippings. A glass of vanilla beans on each table is an interesting centrepiece and only possible where they are grown - this would be a ludicrously expensive stunt in Australia.

Espress is open daily until late, and a worthy stop for coffee if you find yourself away from the Seminyak vortex and fanging for caffeine.

Thanks to the little models, offspring of the children's wear designer Fliss Dodd, who's adorable collection can be found online at Udder.

cabin fever, perth

2012-11-12T11:31:00.002+08:00

beans : roasted by Ristretto

leaf : T2 selection, served in a vintage teapot

soy : yes, extra 50c

caffeine free : chocolate Turkish delight milkshake with two scoops of ice-cream

dunk : bite size biscotti

fork : buttermilk pancakes served with fresh fruit, maple syrup & yoghurt or ice-cream

spoon : cabin muesli laden with nuts & fruit, served with yoghurt & honey

knife : toasted homemade banana bread with cinnamon & walnuts

plate & bowl : traditional New York style bagel topped with grilled pumpkin, eggplant, cream cheese, relish & rocket (can be vegan)

footprint : vintage pumps or peep-toe flats

latte price : $3.50

service : warm & sociable

open : 7.00am to 5.00pm Mon to Fri, 10.00am to 5.00pm Sat

buzz : Cabin Fever first came to my attention last year as the runner-up in the Eat, Drink, Perth coffee awards. I rarely make it into the city centre, but on my annual trip to the Indonesian embassy I made a point to detour to the depths of Bon Marche Arcade. This narrow mall has been around since my days of visiting nana in the big smoke, and the collection of vintage and retro furnishings, crockery and silverware evokes nostalgic memories of youth. The styling is so reminiscent of her lounge room that I wondered if she might be hiding behind the counter baking gingernuts. The teacup collection made me weak at the knees, and I strayed from my usual soy latte in order to caress traditional tea paraphernalia.

Since its conception in 2010, founder Ruth Leigh has established a community from behind the counter. All day relaxation, stimulating conversation, board games and magazines are supported by excellent Ristretto coffee and friendly prices. Their bagels receive rave reviews, with nine combinations of sweet and savoury toppings. Intimate music gigs and monthly craft gatherings extend the love, and the café hosts exhibitions and installations by emerging artists. When was the last time you saw a pom-pom in public? Plus you are within gawking distance of the design goodies next door at Pigeonhole.

There is often a rush for pre-work coffee and lunches, so go outside of peak periods to settle into a deep lounge or concentrate on your next chess move. The space is snug and the atmosphere so personal, that I felt like a voyeur in a hipster’s living room; I even entered into a conversation with a stranger. I may find the coziness a bit stifling on a sunny day, when the lack of windows could induce an eponymous state.

Cabin Fever is proof that you don't have to be big, brash and lit up in neon on the corner to make an impact. A simple menu, and a consistently good brew served with a smile is what cheers one up in the CBD. That, and a kitsch souvenir teaspoon.

anomali, ubud, bali

2012-11-02T13:48:00.001+08:00

The Anomali crew are learning that Ubud and Seminyak are different beasts, and that it may take a while to generate a happening thing in the artistic and yogic heart of Bali. As a roaster that offers single origin beans with tailored extraction methods, they are in direct competition with Seniman Coffee Studio around the corner. The latter is a western owned and run boutique cafe, which gives it an edge with the expats. I prefer Seniman's location and vibe, but for my puny buying power, Anomali wins with their use of unsweetened Aussie Soy.

The Ubud branch offers the same high quality Indonesian beans, experienced staff and industrial style as the Seminyak cafe, but is yet to develop a lived in soul. The main road location would have looked good on paper, however the proximity to the chaotic Hanoman corner means most passers by are focused on negotiating traffic and miss the indistinct shop front. The few seats out the front are marred by noise and pollution and the open plan upstairs area feels vacant and too far from the barista action. My choice is the communal bar downstairs, back from the offensive traffic and within sight of the coffee lab.

They open early (7am) seven days a week, and extract a smooth, nutty espresso from their house blend. The staff are happy and welcoming, with some of them dividing their time between the two cafes to keep the standards consistent. Anomali adds another gong to the excellent Ubud cafe scene; I hope they stick around.

Nb. To see the full list of beans on offer, visit the Anomali Seminyak review.

seniman coffee studio, ubud

2012-11-01T11:12:00.000+08:00

roaster, design studio, cafe

beans : espresso blend 90% Sumatran Gayo and 10% Robusta, single origin available
leaf : loose, herbal & black, also make chai
soy : pre-sweetened
caffeine free : extracted juice - coconut water, orange & pineapple
fork : chocolate nut brownie $1
plate & bowl : Balinese tipat cantok (square sticky rice parcel) with blanched spinach, beans sprouts & peanut sauce

footprint : leave your shoes at the door
latte price : Rp20,000 ($2)
service : warm, a bit reserved
open : 7 days, 9.00am to 8.00pm

buzz : Ubud is fast stamping its authority as an artisan coffee destination, and Seniman Coffee Studio is rocking caffeine junkies from around the world. In the same spirit as Anomali down the road, they source and promote single origin beans from the Indonesian Archipelago, and extract their character by hand using the syphon, pour-over or hand-pulled espresso methods. The baristas, trained by Taiwanese masters, focus on optimizing the flavour potential of particular beans. This process begins with bean selection, roasting on-site, and grinding to order.

Tempted by their pop-up coffee cart at the writer’s festival, I had delayed my gratification all week to go the mother ship and have a proper sit down experience. Keep in mind, they don't open until 9am, which isn't conducive to early risers craving a heart starter.

The funky design and communal table piled with magazines had me at hello, but my day was ruined by cheap pre-sweetened soya milk. Yes, I hear you scoffing, how dare I risk tainting the pure essence of Arabica with soy; however I am not that evolved as a coffee maven to take my poison long and black. Coffee is served on a paddle with a glass of water and dainty Balinese sweet. Unique and unexpected. Single origin orders arrive in a recycled jar, as do the juices. My mango blender juice was thick and cold, exactly how I like it.

The menu comes with a flow chart to help you navigate the “architecture of coffee” and offers a succinct list of three breakfast options and six regional lunch dishes. It is good to see a café promoting authentic Indonesian food (including vegetarian). Customers that may be too scared to eat off a street cart can get a taste of hawker style fare in style.

A low bar extends the length of the engine room and provides a front row seat for the brewing action; close enough to see the dribbles of sweat on the barista’s temples. Ubiquitous plastic chairs have been transformed into groovy rockers, begging you to sway to the chilled playlist. Co-founder & designer Rodney Glick claims, “the Bar Rocker engages with us, stimulating imagination, encouraging curiosity and causes us to re-evaluate how we experience the world.” That is one hell of a chair.

The gleaming roaster sits in the window of the ground floor retail space, where innovative products from the Seniman Industries design arm are for sale alongside bright packets of coffee. No traditional cream, black and chocolate colour-way here. Coffee is well known for its effect on creativity, and the boys obviously have an intravenous line direct to the studio. Their aim is to design things to make you happier; ditch the crap soy and I’ll be laughing.

blue ginger, margaret river

2012-10-18T11:09:00.001+08:00

Blue Ginger Fine Foods & Cafe

beans : house blend or organic

leaf : organic leaf in a pot

soy : yes

dunk : strawberries & cream shortbread $1.50

fork : pear & date slice $4

spoon : raw black sesame halva

knife : stack of buttermilk pancakes with pure Canadian maple syrup, lemon & brown sugar $13.50

plate & bowl : “tree hugger” breakfast, free range eggs, grilled haloumi, roast tomato, avocado, Margaret River tempeh, home made backed beans & mushrooms on Yallingup woodfired sourdough toast $19.50

footprint : thongs or work boots

latte price : $3.70, organic beans extra 40c

service : relaxed & familiar

open : 7 days, 7.30am to mid afternoon, breakfast to 11.00am weekdays and 12.00pm on the weekend.

You wouldn’t happen upon Blue Ginger as a tourist in Margaret River, given its curious location on the edge of the light industrial area; but it is this very position, opposite the yoga school, that attracts a flock of devoted locals. The shed-like skin, wide verandah and assorted retro furniture lend a bucolic atmosphere, albeit encircled with a carpark and uninspiring views. Not that I spend much time gazing at the parking area when there are magazines to read, and a rainbow of enticing goodies on display in the store. Bulk foods, local condiments and gourmet lines are crammed in with giftware, organic beauty products and kitchen gadgets.

There is friendly banter between customers and staff, many on first name basis with Paul and the team. It is casual and unassuming, at times stepping toward inappropriate, with deep German roars from the open kitchen, and chefs flapping about in the seating area.

The menu offers vegetarian and vegan options, with creative salad names and generous portion sizes. Meal quality varies, perhaps with the temperament of the chef, however I'm always safe with Yallingup sourdough toast. Tradies pull in for takeaway all day, salt crusted surfers stop for a refuel, and the post-yoga crowd assembles for brunch. Breakfast is very popular, especially on the weekends, and the coffee machine hums all day, knocking out a solid, reliable brew (with the used grinds given away free for your garden).

In a region dominated by upscale establishments and weekend warriors, it is comforting to know you can rock up at Blue Ginger in sandy feet and feel a sense of community.

anomali, seminyak, bali

2012-09-22T11:43:00.004+08:00

Anomali Coffee

Jalan Drupadi/Oberoi, Seminyak, Bali

beans : Indonesian house blend or single origin
leaf : variety of loose leaf
soy : Australia’s Own, extra Rp5k
caffeine free : fresh juice selection Rp28k
spoon : Bircher muesli Rp35k
knife : french toast with caramelized banana, butterscotch cream & roast almond Rp 35k

footprint : black thongs
latte price : Rp30,000 ($3)
service : keen to please
open : 7 days, 7am to 11pm, midnight on Saturday

buzz : If Bali is the island of temples, this is where you come to worship the bean. For all those serious about coffee, make your way directly, do not pass go or stop to buy a Bintang singlet. If you aren’t a coffee enthusiast, this may change your mind, or at least convince you to shun Nescafe from this day forward. Trust me, your life will be forever enhanced.

Beans from the length of the archipelago are roasted on site, ground to order and prepared according to their dominant characteristic. A clear blackboard flow chart explains the key traits of each variety, and the knowledgeable staff are happy to elaborate for both beginners and connoisseurs. The espresso blend varies according to availability – my soy latte was a smooth Toraja/Mandailing shot with pleasant earthiness, but served in a cup rather than glass. Thank the holy Shiva they have unsweetened soya milk. If you like your coffee cold, they do a range of thick, frappe fusions with blends like "dark choco rum latte" and "orange honey kiss".

For purists that don’t sully their caffeine with milk, there is the option of heart stopping, black, single origin brews prepared with a syphon, plunger, drip filter or wooden neck. The syphon or vacuum pot technique was invented in Berlin in the 1830's, and it is prized for creating a clean, pristine brew using hydrostatic pressure. It requires a deft hand on the gas burner and one on the thermometer, while watching the stopwatch for a precise five minute extraction. It is the most advanced barista technique on display and recommended for the light body Toraja bean.

The action revolves around an open central service island, with one side devoted to milk based goodness and the other the caffeine laboratory. A small army of staff (curiously all from Java) fuss about inside the stainless steel quarter, with the underlings watching and learning the craft of a perfectly timed dripper or espresso crema from the senior baristas. A cleverly placed sky light beams sunshine over the work station, and watching the action from the sidelines is fine entertainment. With the number of staff, a uniform would visually unite the team and give the operation a slicker vibe.

The fit out is warehouse industrial with not a frill or flower in sight. Rough sawn timber, concrete and steel throughout, with ingenious use of 44-gallon drums for tables, sinks and display. Graphic potraits and stencilled font decorate the concrete walls, and green beans are on display in open sacks, awaiting their turn in the Toper roaster that takes pride of place in the window. If your vision of Bali is bamboo blinds, nasi goreng and rice padi views, don't come here (in fact get out of Seminyak all together); Anomali is a contemporary cafe that wouldn't look out of place in a hip corner of Melbourne.

There are a variety of seating options inside including a high bench with stools, communal tables, and the grandstand, where, for two or more people, a demonstration and free cupping can be arranged to taste the full range. The undercover deck area at the front is subject to street noise, smokers and heat, making it a less attractive option.

With the focus on coffee, I personally wouldn’t come for the food, however my table neighbour claimed it was the best steak sandwich he’d ever had. Plastic wrapped banana bread and a single piece of cake looked very lonely and unappetising in the fridge display, and with it standing front and centre, it requires more attention. The menu is heavily swayed to the demise of animals with a side serving of chips; safe bistro food for the masses that doesn’t push any creative boundaries. The idea of foie gras on toast disgusts me, but hooray for self- service water in a jug (yes, you can drink it).

Anomali adds another dimension to the already impressive Seminyak coffee scene (and is next door to one of my favourite breakfast joints, The Tuckshop) and they are opening a cafe in Ubud in early October that will raise the coffee bar in the hills. Count me in as a groupie.

Beans available :
Sumatra Mandailing : high body, tobacco
Aceh Gayo Organic : high bod,y earthy
Papua Wamena : medium body, fruity
Flores Bajawa : medium body, citrus
Toraja : light body, chocolate and caramel
Bali Kintamani : light body, nutty and orange
Java Estate : light body, chocolate and herbs
Luwak : cat body

moore & moore, fremantle

2012-09-06T10:52:00.000+08:00

beans : Fiori

leaf : loose leaf & herbal brews, iced in summer

soy : yes

caffeine free : rooibos latte

fork : slivered almond & hazelnut slice

spoon : pear & chocolate macadamia tart $6.00

knife : sweet fruit toast with home made conserves, fresh fruit & honey mascarpone $16.50

plate & bowl : baked beans with avocado, Turkish toast & salad $14.50

footprint : vintage anything

latte price : $3.80

service : funky & gorgeous with variable attitude

open : 7 days, 7am to 4pm

Moore & Moore is a distillation of Freo essence; a homeopathic remedy for life’s little ills. Since its dawning in the Moores Building Contemporary Art Gallery, its reputation has spread far beyond the side street locale, and queues are standard practice for a weekend breakfast outing. This popularity can result in long waits and confused orders, so my advice is to go outside of peak times if possible. A cold coffee after 20 minutes does not a happy camper make.

Not surprising given the address, the artistic coterie blends with uni students, earth mothers and a small posse of young hipsters that use product. The back courtyard is popular with nuclear families, as there is plenty of space to park mini all-terrain baby vehicles, and the extension onto the footpath has introduced al fresco out front, with a sign welcoming canine friends.

Inside, the heritage space is decorated with mismatched, preloved furniture, salvaged treasures, gig posters, and installations. Cluttered and dust collecting, but absorbing. It encourages lounging & lingering, like hanging out in an art student’s share-house, albeit with better food.

The informal council of locals placates the wait to order, and a blur of wait staff and foot traffic cutting through the queue keeps you alert. Then there is the art to ponder and indie tunes to get your groove on. You get to the counter and realize you haven’t even glanced at the blackboard menu.

Alchemy occurs in the tiny cluttered kitchen, where Simon and his band of short order chefs create honest comfort food. Our house made baked beans were leagues ahead of Heinz, and served with chewy Turkish bread, a generous half avocado and fat field mushrooms. Behind the coffee machine, milk is expertly textured and poured over a robust shot of Fiori espresso. In a lush red cup and saucer it is an art piece unto itself (however, could have been hotter). I’m intrigued by the idea of a honeycomb espresso or a rooibos latte, and have them on my wish list for future visits.

more cafe, busselton

2012-09-03T12:35:00.000+08:00

beans : Yahava Kintamani

leaf : Tease silk bags

soy : yes, Vitasoy

caffeine free : green smoothie with banana & spirulina $8.50

dunk : cranberry & white chocolate shortbread $3

fork : double chocolate pecan brownie with double cream $4.50

spoon : baked raspberry & white chocolate cheesecake $6.50

knife : banana & pistachio bread with honey butter $8.50 or French toast with maple syrup & strawberries $13.50

plate & bowl : roast pumpkin & tahini salad

footprint : office flats, thongs

latte price : $4.30

service : familiar and obliging

open : Monday to Saturday from 7.30am to mid afternoon

More Café filled a gaping, dowdy hole in the Busselton scene for a funky café with great coffee and affordable, fresh food.

Created by the former (and now reinstated) head chef at The Goose, Gary brought his years of experience and travel abroad to the plate, along with a hip design sense from his partner, Chelsea. Graphic monochromatic wallpaper, exposed brick and concrete get a kick of colour with whimsical light shades, band posters and plastic orange stools. Generous use of glass makes the most of the corner laneway location and you will usually find me in the window bench seat catching a few morning rays. The café is very popular with the town lunch crowd, so it is best to visit outside the midday hours if you want to linger.

The fridge display is stocked daily with salads, panini, quiche, fritters and tarts (with gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options available). For a fast, healthy plateful at a friendly price, the salad selection is hard to beat. The blackboard menu has faithful all-day breakfast fare and comfort food choices, including nasi goreng - a nod to Gary’s Indonesian surf trips. Caffeine is extracted from locally roasted Yahava beans and is consistently rich and smooth. There is no hesitation to serve milk extra hot and there is very little delay from the barista to the table.

A stack of regular customer cards are stored on the counter, next to the tempting friands and muffins, and horoscopes from the West Australian are stuck to the back of the coffee machine, so you can check out what kind of day you should be having. The magazine selection was once the best design fodder in town, but sadly, the new owners haven’t been renewing the stash.

More Cafe has been in new ownership for over a year and so far they are upholding the excellent standards that Gary and Chelsea established. Long may it continue, I'll be back soon.

it is time to get serious

2012-09-03T11:25:00.001+08:00

Four coffee free days - what was I thinking? That is no fuel for a comeback.

Sorry for my absence, it has been an exciting few months out in the world, with over 100 coffees consumed since my last post, many of them during a six week trip to Italy. It was here I matured from a soy latte sipper to a short mac quaffer, and broke my all time record by having three espressos in one day (bad idea). Some of you will have been following my jaunt to Sicily and Venice via Treacle, or you may have been keeping one eye on the barefoot tropical season through Remote and Raw. In the spirit of research, I have sniffed out some fab joints that I can't wait to share with you. I invite you to comment if you have visited the same cafe and had a different experience, if something has changed since I was there, or if you simply want to agree with my opinion. All welcome.

I have given Crema a spring birthday, with a new look and a new header, so swing on over for a look (if you are an email subscriber) and tell me what you think. I've got the kettle on.

vegan anzac bikkies

2012-04-30T19:09:00.000+08:00

I seriously doubt whether there was a single vegan ANZAC in either world wars, however if there was, I salute them with my vegan version of a family favourite, adapted from the simple recipe in mum's CWA cookbook. I added a touch of dark chocolate, because I'm sure that if the troops could have got there hands on some they would have savoured every little morsel. Lest we forget.

urban coffee house, busselton

2012-04-01T18:49:00.001+08:00

unit 2/19 Bussell Highway

Busselton

next to Red Rooster

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beans : 5 senses arabica

leaf : loose leaf $4.20 per pot

soy : Vitasoy, extra 50c

caffeine free : fresh juice fruit mix, apple, pear, orange, watermelon ($7.50)

dunk : gingerbread people with smartie buttons ($2.50)

fork : sweetly decorated cupcakes & daily sweet & savoury muffins ($3.50)

knife : Yallingup woodfired fruit toast ($6.50)

plate & bowl : lentil burger with salad, sour cream & beetroot chutney ($12.50) or the vegetarian breakfast of roast tomato, mushrooms, spinach, feta, poached egg, avocado, pesto oil & sourdough toast ($13.50) - vegan option can be arranged

footprint : steel cap boots or thongs

latte price : $3.90

service : young & friendly

open : Monday to Thursday 7am to 3pm , Friday 7am to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 2pm

the buzz : Long deterred by its location in the bowels of “chicken world", I was encouraged by a friend (and Urban regular) to meet for a coffee and temporarily cast aside my disdain for carpark views. It is, after all, this carpark and the corner highway location that makes the café a favourite for tradesmen with trailers, and people that want to avoid the centre of town or grab a take-away before work.

The owners have injected their Maori heritage into the decorating scheme with an eclectic gamut of themed souvenirs against a backdrop of forest green walls and mismatched furniture. A kids play area dominates one corner, which depending on the source of your perception is a fantastic distraction or a gross waste of window seating.

The Urban have built a loyal clientele with their consistent and approachable food, friendly service and excellent value. All day breakfasts are generous, and the no-nonsense lunches service customers with fast takeaway. A vegetarian hunger can be easily satiated and they are happy to modify certain dishes to suit vegans. 5 Senses beans are a solid foundation to a satisfying coffee, but the extra soy charge is regrettable.

While I appreciated the Urban’s unpretentious vibe and easy access is attractive for many, the location and echoes of an office block cafeteria drops it down my local favourites list. However if you feel threatened by the lofty dining at Margaret River wineries and don’t want to pay inflated prices with your ocean view, the Urban offers honest, good value food and somewhere you can put your feet up, boots and all, with a coffee and the daily paper.

cook, style, shoot

2012-03-18T15:18:00.001+08:00

Rather chuffed to receive an "honorary mention" in the recent Radio National First Bite competition - Cook, Style, Shoot. That's my photo of the blue coffee cup, second row. Got to be in it to win it - well, nearly.

wheatbelt gallery, moora

2012-03-18T14:47:00.000+08:00

Every autumn we load up the ute for an annual mid-west trip to the wheatbelt area around Mullewa, Three Springs and Dongara. Tom grew up amidst the red dust, double-gees and stubble, and many of our mates have stayed on the land, contributing to the population and the food security of Australia. Espresso in these parts is confined to domestic machines and dreams of George Clooney, with one exception in the small town of Moora. If you leave Perth after breakfast and head north along the Midlands Highway # 116, you'll arrive in time for morning tea. Pull up under the eucalypts near the tourist bureau and train station and stroll on over the road. Don't move too fast, you aren't in the 'burbs anymore.

Owner, operator, barista and baker, Denise Clydesdale-Gebert has an uncanny ability to remember us and our coffee orders from one year to the next. One soy latte, one soy flat white, heading north. Yep, that's us.

The space used to be a picture framing workshop and a gallery, housing an eclectic range of Aboriginal and Australiana art. Denise has turned her focus over to the cafe and expanded the space to include a covered patio out the back for functions. It has become a popular meeting place and focal point for the community. Much of the art remains, hanging above retro and new furnishing with no apparent relation to each other. Stacks of newspapers and magazines are scattered on various surfaces, the melting moments are like nana used to make, and fresh muffins are cheap ($3) and home made. Our order could be improved with better quality soy milk (Vitasoy please), but still, I'm flushed with Denise's welcoming smile and impressive memory.

If you're in the area, I encourage you to slow down, stop for a break, and support this local business.

Open Tuesday to Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm

While we are in the country groove, I thought I'd share some images beyond the cafe.

marbled chocolate & zucchini bread

2012-01-24T06:30:00.000+08:00

The stall holders are almost giving zucchini away at the farmer's markets, yet there is only so many fritters one can put away in a lifetime. Behold this moist vegan loaf that is cheap, easy and won't scare the children. If you really want to hide the zucchini, peel it first so there is no trace of green. I forsee a marble cake revival, evoking memories of childhood birthday parties, without the questionable pink swirl. You can safely double the recipe (and cook for another 20 to 25 minutes) and use a 20cm springform tin to make a large cake.

wild poppy, fremantle

2012-01-23T16:51:00.000+08:00

2 Wray Avenue

Fremantle

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beans : “Dark Star”
leaf : organic leaf
soy : Vitasoy, extra 50c
caffeine free : old fashioned milkshakes in aluminium tumblers
dunk : fresh daily pastry
fork : macadamia and pecan tart
spoon : gluten free chocolate & almond torte
knife : waffle with strawberries, dessert yoghurt & maple syrup

footprint : comfortable orthopeadics, knitted slippers or kitten heels
latte price : $4.20
service : happy & welcoming
open : Mon to Sat 7.00am - 4.00pm, Sun 8.00am - 4.00pm, dinner Fri & Sat 6.00pm - 10.00pm (breakfast daily until 11.30am)

buzz : The large interior is divided into three zones, with relaxed lounge areas at either end of a central dining room. The informal and welcoming style is shaped by nana crafts & vintage collectables, from the era when plush red velvet and crocheted knee rugs were de rigueur. Patchwork and thrift store paintings are spunked up with dark grey walls and shiny black wooden chairs around standard issue white tables. I’ve never been able to muster up a love for mustard yellow upholstery, but I won’t hold that against them.

Noting my fascination with the whimsical lace lampshades, the owner, Graeme Shapiro, encouraged me to return for dinner to see the patterned light dance on the walls. Yes, I would very much like to do just that. Staff acknowledged regulars by name, were friendly to newbies and seemed to be enjoying themselves. A snappier uniform would be more flattering and up the overall style.

Footpath tables and an expanse of south facing glass provide a viewing platform to watch the passing Wray Avenue parade. Lively at any hour, the activity peaks with a loyal lunch crowd and the ever increasing Freo weekend breakfast scene.

Fresh pastries are swooped up in the morning, and the pick-and-go lunch display including cibbata, quiche & salad is popular with nearby hospital employees. The menu clearly states there are to be no changes as to “expediate orders”, which is understandable but regrettable for vegans or others with different dietary needs. On this occasion I only had coffee, which could have been stronger, and I frown at the extra charge for soy. The food is widely praised with the quality and serving sizes offering good value for money. Look out for a return visit with an appetite in the near future.

peach & walnut muffins

2012-01-17T16:36:00.000+08:00

Summer time and the farmer's markets are replete with stone fruit. A tray of peaches for $5 and buckets of white or yellow flesh nectarines for $4. While there is nothing better than four, or five, or nine peaches eaten as a mono-meal, Auntie Nelly might raise her eyebrows when you present her a bowl of fruit for morning tea. In that case, add the blush of sunshine into these easy vegan muffins and show off your inner compassionate chef.

breakast corn bread

2012-01-15T12:36:00.001+08:00

A slightly sweet vegan version of cornbread with a satisfying grit thanks to the cornmeal. Delicious unadorned or with jam, fresh pear or nut butter. If there is any left after breakfast, toast it lightly for afternoon tea.

new year kickstart

2012-01-04T10:07:00.000+08:00

The first coffee of the year award goes to this little beauty at 10am on New Years Day at Duende, Leederville. Made with locally roasted Dark Star beans and Vitasoy. Good morning 2012. We hadn't planned to be here, we were plugging along freeway north and the lure of Leederville and the thought of coffee drew us onto the exit ramp. Most places were closed, leaving all those chasing a caffeine injection, juice or greasy cure to descend on a couple of cafes. The place was packed, order dockets were streaming out of the black box, the grinder was working up a sweat and the three group machine ran hot under the direction of two blonde baristas. We were glad to be perched at the bar watching the show, flicking a magazine and rejoicing in the gift of another year.

Best wishes for a relaxed and joyful year. May your espresso be smooth and your milk hot.

warung murah, legian, bali

2011-12-04T09:50:00.001+08:00

Padang style restaurant
Chinese & Indonesian food

beach end of Double Six Road (Jalan Arjuna), Legian

open 8.00am to 10.00pm

This is a diversion from my regular posts in that there is no crema or crumbs in sight. There isn't even an espresso machine on the premises. So why am I here? To fill my face with cheap and cheerful Indonesian tucker. Warung Murah translates as "cheap restaurant", and for less than $1.50 you can pile your plate high with freshly cooked vegan or meat lovers morsels. There is a menu available with the standard offerings of nasi goreng, mee goreng, gado gado, chicken gordong blue or mashed potato, but the fun is to be had at the buffet, where you point at whatever you want and the staff slop it onto your plate. You are then given a coupon stating the price of your selection, which you later present to the cashier. Nutty red rice or unpolished white rice is the base, and you build onto it with curried tofu or tempeh, beef rendang, coconut spiced fish, chicken in various forms, potato patties and numerous vegetable dishes. Condiments are offered last, and unless you have a high tolerance to chilli, exercise caution with the sambal. Icy blender juices, milkshakes and beer are available, or heat yourself up with a cup of Nescafe or muddy Balinese coffee. Beverages are presented with a "just for drink" coupon, and at a little over $1 for pineapple juice, you can affort to rack them up. Jaffles, pancakes and black rice pudding with banana and coconut cream satistfy the sweet end of the meal.

As the streets of Legian and Seminyak become crowded with international cuisine, many tourists don't stray far from the familiar choices of pizza, burgers and pasta - either because they don't know what to order, where to go, or are unsure of the hygiene standards. At Warung Murah the food appears continuously throughout the day from a tiny back room kitchen, service is fast and efficient, and the place is humming at all hours with locals, budget travellers and expats. Next time you're in Legian, call in for a delicious, satisfying and inexpensive feed. Shirts and shoes are optional.

deus ex machina, seminyak

2011-11-21T14:25:00.001+08:00

"warung of simple pleasures"
cafe, motorcycles, surfboards, bicycles & clothing
32b Jalan Laksmana (Kayuaya/Oberoi), Seminyak, Bali

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beans : Balinese blend
leaf : bag
soy : yes, pre-sweetened
caffeine free : raspberry smoothie $3.30
fork : choc brownies $2.20

knife : thick ass French toast topped with sugar, fresh strawberries and mango, served with warm maple syrup $4.40

plate & bowl : “the weed eater”- teriyaki grilled zucchini, roasted red pepper, lettuce, tomato, onion, alfalfa and goats cheese stuffed in a toasted baguette and served with wedges $7.80

footprint : hemp Sanuk scuffs, thongs
latte price : $3.80
service : friendly, but inexperienced and a little vacant and preoccupied
open : 7 days, 7am to 6pm

buzz : Sydney born Deus Ex Machina expanded their boys club to Bali last year with the anticipated opening of a vast restaurant and retail space in Canggu, enticingly named the “Temple of Enthusiasm”. This year, they spread the love to Seminyak , where the “Warung of Simple Pleasures” stamps their signature style and continues their pursuit of fun and speed. The masculine industrial space features recycled materials, concrete and exposed brick, and sells a range of authentic testosterone toys and threads for the surfer, cyclist and all round cool dude (or biker babe) in your life. Jalan Laksmana is famous for its high end boutiques, but rather than silk, lace and 3 inch heels, the focus at Deus is “enjoyment of the machine” and their wares represent a way of life where “all risk takers are welcome”. Would you like a double shot with that?

The café menu is presented on individual sheets of tea stained paper stuck to the wall. Breakfast staples, sandwiches, salads and soups cover the basic hunger needs, and I am keen to return to try their “thick ass French toast”. Inside is an open lounge area while outside on the exposed footpath is a number of wooden tables and chairs. If you’re a smoker this is your zone, or if you can tolerate the road noise and pollution that now prevails in Seminyak.

The newest temple on the journey of Deus is still finding its feet in the coffee department. My soy latte was weak and watery and didn’t step far above a Nescafe 3-in-1. In time, and with some more barista training, I am certain this “multifarious heaving mass of enthusiasm” will stamp its authority on the gap between Seminyak Square and Ku De Ta, however I doubt it will ever challenge the Corner Store or Sea Circus as a coffee destination. Their well presented and unique merchandise is the lure, and anyone with a weakness for custom made motorbikes, single speed pushies and retro surfboards should put the store on their must visit list.

lost in the night

2011-09-20T12:50:00.000+08:00

My laptop was stolen on Sunday evening, and on it were a number of cafe images and reviews that I had not yet posted. Some of it was backed up on a thumb drive...that also went missing, so if you are a cafe owner wondering what ever happened to that Crema & Crumbs woman and her write up, I have no choice but to return and savor another coffee with my trusty Canon and notebook in tow.