The Hidden Garden

I can’t believe I’ve not already reviewed this great little café… So here goes!
This place got a new lease of life when the new owners took over a few years ago — the whole place has been re-​energised: new décor; a delicious new but simple menu; the courtyard (out the back) spruced up to make it so much more welcoming than just an outside space; music Wednesdays in the warmer months and ad-​hoc hosts to one-​off events like beer /​wine tasting and album launches.
The food is lovingly prepared by the owner’s Mum — she’s a lovely lady who takes pride in her dishes, and it shows. The portions are good and always tasty — probably a bit above average prices for the street, but then you pay for what you get. There’s regularly changing specials on offer too.
What about the coffee? Well, I’d say it’s the best on the street — a good size (compared to some who are more expensive and you get those «trendy» little cups); fairly priced; and it actually tastes like good coffee should — not like hot brown milk!
The owner is a music buff: acoustic guitar hanging on the wall; a Jimi Hendrix CD set up behind the bar; and best of all are the Music Wednesday’s in summer months where it’s Open Mic night — people singing, playing various instruments and generally having a good time. It’s a great, chilled atmosphere.
Staff are friendly and efficient — you come in as a customer, and leave as a friend.

Under new management for the last year or so & what a refreshing change it has been! Always great coffee, run by a lovely young couple who are very welcoming, always great food (love their breakfast/​brunch options — cooked by the owner’s mother!) — can’t speak more highly of this place. Best coffee in Ascot Vale. & try the home made cakes with it too! Love it…

One of the newcomers to the Union Road cafes that are popping up. Thought I’d give it a go and support the local business. That said, I won’t be returning here any time soon.
I had a coffee and a slice of banana bread. It came to $ 9.75 or so. I wouldn’t complain if it was a delicious cup of coffee and an even better piece of banana bread, but it was far from that. The coffee was a hot cup of milk that lacked any flavor. The banana bread was just as tasteless. And all for nearly $ 10!!! Nah, won’t be returning. Especially when they have Bravo Café next door, that serves a real good cup of coffee every time and a delicious pastry for $ 4.90. I’ll stick to Bravo Café.