Retro is the new modern! But if you prefer your nostalgia with a twist of modern sensibility and a heavy injection of twenty-first century cuisine, try this milk bar style chain.
Milk Cafe is an old fashioned milk bar that recalls the days of drive-ins and
bodgies and widgies. If you've got a hankering for an old fashioned milk shake, drop into one of their two locations at Ashgrove (
Shop 9, 16 Ashgrove Avenue) or Windsor (
142 Newmarket Road).
The family owned chain is the definition of quaint. The interior is bright and airy with a heavy reliance on the colour yellow. There is a fusion between old and new, with 1950's memorabilia displayed in a modern, minimalist style. And, of course, their popular milkshakes are served in old fashioned metal glasses.
The food also combines new and old mentalities. Customers can order greasy 1950's staples like hamburgers and BLT's or can opt for something less sinful like a salad or gourmet sandwiches. The range of 'international' breakfasts are popular (my personal favourite is the Canadian – French toast with bacon and maple syrup) and the drinks menu includes thick shakes, spiders and a huge selection of tea.
Milk Cafe's Ashgrove store is open seven days a week from 7.30am until 5.30pm and the Windsor store is open from Monday to Saturday from 7.00am until 5.00pm.