North and Eight

Walid Hijazi didn’t think he’d get back into hospitality. After years owning and operating Babble Bar & Cafe in Prahran, he was ready for a break. When the big space that’s now North and Eight cafe opened up – formerly a fruit shop, then a lolly shop – he knew he couldn’t pass it up.

Hijazi wanted to combine his experience working in busy inner-city cafes – with their elaborate menus and typically diverse coffee offerings – with the more laid-back and personalised service of the suburbs. North and Eight does this effortlessly.

Thanks to the large kitchen, the menu spans a diverse set of cuisines and preparation methods – which is ideal for groups with a range of cravings. Light options include zucchini, corn and quinoa fritters. And calamari with papaya slaw. Comfort foods such as Korean fried chicken waffles and Oreo pancakes are also in constant demand. To take away there’s a rotating variety of sweets at the counter.

For drinks, there’s Proud Mary coffee, a selection of teas and hot chocolate. On the cooler side, a healthy range of juices and smoothies, and the not-so-healthy Northella: a chocolate and hazelnut shake topped with a Nutella doughnut.