The Dirty Apron

Owners of The Dirty Apron Andrew Akathiotis and George Tsagouris are childhood friends who also train together at the Clifton Hill Football Club down the road in Quarry Park.

From 1917 to 2010 the corner shop was home to various butchers – most recently Marshall’s. It had a loyal customer base – many are now cafe-goers.

During the renovation period, builders removed internal walls and discovered a high ceiling with timber beams. The new design is simple and has restored what was naturally in the building. They have added lights and plants to make it cosy.

Dirty Apron’s menu aims to cater to everyone, from young families to tradies to elderly locals who have lived in the area for decades. There are options for the health-conscious and vegan, as well as those looking for an indulgent treat.

The head chef comes from Carlton’s The Vertue of the Coffee Drink. On the menu you’ll find dishes such as blueberry buttermilk hotcakes, a beef rib sandwich and cauliflower salad.

The bread comes from a small bakery in Balwyn called Ed’s Bread. And milk is from Fitzroy’s Saint David Dairy. Milk alternatives come from Milk Lab, and beans come from Coffee Gridlock Espresso in West Heidelberg.

Tsagouris’s mum, Marietta, bakes many of the sweet treats that sit on the counter, such as brownies and peanut butter cookies.