The Other Side

The Other Side takes a simple approach to food and drink that’s apparent from its name. Charlie Galbally’s popular cafe is located on the other side of the train tracks to his other suburban fixture, The Daily Espresso Bar (since sold).

The menu is packed with wholesome offerings that showcase freshness rather than flair. The Other Side Trifle melds sweet compote and sour natural yoghurt for a smooth, crunchy creation that’s both light and satisfying – a combination rare on most breakfast menus. The savoury flipside comes in the form of the smashed avocado on rye – a generous mound of avocado, minted peas and feta on crusty rye.

The other focus is coffee. Galbally doesn’t look any further than he needs to for beans – local small-batch roasters Humblebee and Loaded provide the goods. The baristas love a bit of banter as they whip up your coffee, remarkable latte art included.

Bread is by Honest Goods Co. and juices are by Pressed Daily. Flowers from Breidahl Blooms (also in Swanbourne) are available for purchase and lend a pop of colour to the exposed brick and white paint interior.