Next of Kin

Since 2016, Next of Kin has been owned by Evi Meisa (a former barista at Cafe Gaia) and her partner Danny Mahendra, who serves as head chef.

The menu moves beyond the usual Melburnian fare of smashed avocado and eggs Benedict (though you can get those too). There are plenty of salads, including the Mixed Mushrooms Grain Salad and refreshing Coconut Chicken Salad. More importantly, the kitchen mixes things up – in a good way.

As well as those healthy options, Next of Kin caters to the hearty eaters, who can choose between a big breakfast and a pulled lamb burger. It also understands and appreciates those who can’t be dealing with savoury at all - not when there’s Black Forest Pancakes with cherry curd, sour cherries, chocolate coconut yoghurt ice cream and whipped cream to be had.

Drinks are sourced from some of the best, with milkshakes by Mörk Chocolate and coffee from Proud Mary.

The interior features a sea-blue smudged wall, carved wooden chairs and greenery above your head. There’s also a nicely sized courtyard for the outdoors-inclined.