Ruby’s Diner

When the weather’s warm, many will find themselves heading towards the beaches in the eastern suburbs. To avoid the beach crowds, be sure to stop at Ruby’s Diner, conveniently located in Waverley at the corner of Taylor Street and Bronte Road. This narrow space, which opens out onto the street, is brightened by the nautical, tattoo-like mural comprising a flock of vibrant birds sprawled across the back wall. But don’t let this loud interior detract from the focus here – coffee.

While most of us will appreciate the Single Origin coffee on tap, serious coffee drinkers will be thrilled by the speciality filter methods on offer including Aeropress, siphon and the cold drip black, served on ice with a wedge of lime and vanilla syrup. The all day breakfast features generous dishes of French toast with honey ricotta and a local favourite, creamy scrambled eggs with asparagus and smokey tomato relish. Lunch offers Asian-inspired dishes such as lemongrass chicken salad with chilli jam, Chinese cabbage and brown rice and a decadent pecan pie to finish.

Owned and managed by Ed Devlin, the youthful staff are relaxed but attentive and happily point out their favourites on the menu.