Even the sign is Nana-approved
At first glance,
Grigons and Orr Corner Store is just another Melbourne cafe with its outside tables lined up in a row on the corner of Queensberry and Chetwynd. But step inside, and you'll immediately be greeted by an atmosphere of cosiness and kitsch--much like Nana's kitchen. Shelves stocked to the brim with baked beans and shower gel, Spam and toilet paper, you realise you've discovered something more than just a run-of-the-mill cafe.
Grigonns & Orr Corner Store is not only a supplier of
random grocery items to its North Melbourne locals, but a purveyor of a wonderful brunch. In fact, it is currently my favourite place to partake in the Sunday indulgence.
Shelves stocked with all the randomness one can hope for
Lemon & lime infused water whet your palette for culinary delights
This wintry morning, I sauntered down in my lazy Sunday fashion with my lazy, fat dog and sidled up to the nearest outside table. I snagged a couple menus and decided that I was going to try something new: coddled eggs served with creamed spinach and cheesy soldiers--the perfect comfort food for this bitingly cold morning. And though I was "trying new things," nothing could deter me from ordering my usual pot of soy chai with honey. Because (and I'm not afraid to say this with ultimate conviction) G&O serve the best soy chai in Melbourne. The perfect balance of spice and creaminess, I could have about 10 of these and still want another 3. And, what's more, they serve their pots of teas in the cutest little tea cozies.
The best soy chai served in an oh-so-stylish cosy.
After ordering and paying at the counter, I'm followed outside by one of the staff so they can feed Mojo (my fat dog) some dog treats. Because not only are G&O cute, cosy and kitsch, they're dog friendly too. A big plus in my book.
Even the dog treats are served on delicate floral-patterned China.
When the food arrives, it doesn't disappoint. The free range eggs are cooked to perfection, the cheesy soldiers compliment the spinach and eggs exquisitely and the portions are just the right size, you don't want to over-indulge in comfort food, even if it is a lazy Sunday.
Deliciousness in a pot
Cappuccinos come in cups that seem to be a throwback to Grandma's homely comforts.
G&O's menu, although seemingly simple, is distinctive in its base ingredients: the Warm Chili Couscous with poached egg or perhaps the Ricotta Pancakes with Barbados cream. A far cry from your usual poached eggs on toast (which of course they serve up wonderfully), but quite satisfying when you're after something just a little bit different.
Even the simple things are done well at Grigons & Orr
Of course, it's not a review without a bit of constructive feedback, so here goes. I'm not overly thrilled that a side of avocado is $3.50--I mean, they're not bananas. And it would be nice to see a good old-fashioned Eggs Benedict on the menu. Well, I'm actually just after the hollandaise, there's no better dip for toast than some creamy, homemade hollandaise sauce.
All in all, a great little escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the casual service of some delightful eats and lovingly made drinks, all for a fairly decent price. Oh, and if you've just used up your last can of Spam, why not grab a few while you're there?
