Ruby's

You can spy the bright turquoise shelving of Ruby’s through the window from Nicholson Street. Coupled with a matching turquoise, tiled splashback and a black-and-gold counter, Ruby’s is retro diner and modern cool all at once.

Co-owned by couple Becky and Mik Tsatsis, this art deco-inspired cafe/gallery boasts specialty coffee by Padre, a Greek-influenced brunch menu and fun, refreshing drinks such as its house-made raspberry iced tea. Aiming for a “kid and dog-friendly” dining environment, the Tsatsis’ fittingly named their venture after their dog, Ruby.

While diners sip on Nutella and peanut butter milkshakes, and munch on haloumi fritters, they can also admire artwork by local artists that adorns Ruby’s walls, all of which are available to purchase. The displays change regularly so you’ll never be short of an exhibition to ponder while you indulge in a weekend ‘French Kiss’ – French toast made with Greek sweet bread served with yoghurt, house-made lemon curd, fresh berries and flaked almonds.

You won’t catch a whiff of any pretention here; the service is attentive and cheerful. With an outdoor courtyard complete with hanging greenery, rustic timber tables and mismatched chairs, Ruby’s is a warm and homey addition to this otherwise quiet side of Coburg.