I think there’s a perception that Fitzroy is not a particularly family-friendly area and is full of young hipsters with no kids. Well, having lived in Fitzroy with two very young kids I can attest that it’s not the case – and Sir Charles is a fantastic new addition to the collection of family-friendly cafes in the area.
Sir Charles is the latest venture from Axil Coffee Roasters (another family-friendly eatery in Hawthorn) and built on the site of the the former Beans and Bagels. Having been a customer at the previous establishment I am in awe of the transformation. Goodbye dated, dimly lit cafe, hello to light, blonde wood, pastel accents and copper stools.
Oooh those copper stools. I just couldn’t stop taking photos of them! I have no idea how comfortable they are to perch on but they look amazing. Their brushed glossiness brings a sophisticated warmth to the high ceilings and expansive space which could otherwise come across as cold and cavernous.
The wide corridors means that there is plenty of room for prams and there’s a bank of high chairs for little bottoms. On our visit early Saturday morning about the quarter of patrons were families with kids. Note there’s no change table and the toilets are quite narrow so you may have trouble getting a pram inside.
The daytime menu has an Asian flavour to it. There’s no child’s menu but you can order simple items like toast with preserves ($5.50) or soft boiled egg and soldiers ($8.50).
I tried the BBQ pork belly with tonkatsu sauce, spring onion and fried egg roti ($17). Judging by the constant flow of this dish from the kitchen to diners I suspect this is one of their most popular items.
The pork was a melting slab of meat and fat and the crunchy bean sprouts and chilli helped cut through the richness. The fried egg was done perfectly so that the yolk was still runny on a gentle prod.
I also tried the vegan toasted coconut crepe ($13.50). While I wasn’t expecting a French-style egg crepe I think they should specifically describe it as a glutinous rice flour crepe because not everyone enjoys its chewy, slippery texture. I, for one, love it, so I was very happy with the dish. I particularly enjoyed the slight hint of sweetness from the coconut and the pile of fresh fruit salad and butterscotch sauce.
The rest of the menu is just as exciting and the friendly service and gorgeous decor will mean that it becomes a regular on the Fitzroy cafe circuit for those with little ones in tow.
HOT Tips:
- pram access;
- high chairs; and
- standard menu suitable for kids;
- toilets are small so you can’t fit a pram inside.
Sir Charles, 121 Johnston St, Fitzroy 03 9415 7077
Mon to Wed 7am–4pm
Thu to Sat 7am–10pm
Sun 7am–4pm
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