What could be a better way to spend a sunny autumn Melbourne day than enjoying a lazy brunch in the city before heading to the big game at Etihad Stadium?
Hardware Lane has to be one of the city's top spots for a weekend brunch, offering a range of dining options in a lovely European setting.
Chilled out, friendly waiters make Affogato Espresso Bar a more relaxed choice than some of the other options with their pushy staff trying to entice passersby – although annoying, their touting does add to the atmosphere!
Mismatched crockery and a glass jar filled with fresh flowers on the table give Affogato a cute retro feel. Our funky waiter was keen to chat about the footy with hubby who was wearing his team's colours, proving true Melburnians can be both alternative and into footy.
The French toast with bacon was superb – well cooked with just the right amount of maple syrup to compliment the smoky bacon. The vego breakfast was less consistent – delicious mushrooms and spinach, but the scrambled eggs were a letdown and the toast was underdone. Importantly, hubby reported that the coffee was good.
With our bill totalling under $40, I would return to Affogato for a cheap and cheerful brunch.
