The gradual disappearance of old-school milk bars and corner shops has left holes in the fabric of suburban Melbourne. When sisters Sam and Alli Fisher decided to open a venue, they were drawn to the idea of a milk bar serving as a neighbourhood hub – a place where locals could reconnect and restore some of that fading community spirit.

Their place, Tyler’s Milk Bar, is both a cafe and retail store, with a focus on Preston produce and Indigenous-owned businesses on the retail side. Lining the shelves in the retro dining room, you might find Warndu tea from South Australia, kombucha by Lore, milk and butter from Gippsland Jersey, and Chappy’s Chips. Tyler’s also covers household essentials for when you’d rather not head to the supermarket, with a focus on products with sustainable and reusable packaging.

The cafe side blends old-school comfort with plenty of modern twists. Locals prize the bacon and egg breakfast muffin, filled with sharp cheddar and house-made relish. For lunch, it might be the Sally Sanga, a salad number on your choice of a soft roll or sourdough, with a raft of optional add-ons. We also love the F*#%ing Amazing Toastie, stuffed with a spring onion omelette, crispy chilli oil, double cheese, and served with a side of roasted sesame sauce for “a dipping good time”.