Syrup Cafe

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It's a pity this funky little café is not in the main street because it'd probably be flat out, but then again that's also the beauty of this boutique eatery. There's no need to book and the service is fast.



With only about half a dozen tables inside and three outdoor tables, this brightly coloured cafe is intimate with atmosphere.



Syrup is run by two sisters, Denise and Kathy, who are friendly and chatty. When I arrived I saw one of them bringing out a bowl of water for a dog that was accompanying a customer outside.

The owners try to use locally sourced, organic produce from the Yarra Valley. They make all the food (except the cakes) themselves and without a doubt my melt was the best I have ever tasted. At $7 it is also one of the cheapest I have had for ages and the best value. It was not ridiculously large like some cafes, but more than enough.

My delicious veggie melt was toasted on Turkish style bread with fresh spinach, roasted eggplant, pumpkin, zucchini, capsicum and ricotta. This was a beautiful colour combination topped with a sweet chili sauce. This made all the difference, one that I have never thought of adding to my grilled vegetable toasties.



My friend had the Reuben despite her initial inclination towards an avocado and chicken dish. This is a New York Jewish dish that was popular in the seventies. Apparently there is renewed interest in this interesting sandwich. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the sandwich, it is served on an organic sourdough rye filled with slow cooked corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and creamy Thousand Island dressing. All this with a drink for only $13. Not for vegetarians but I can still admire the combination.



My friend, a well read reviewer, commented that the Reuben was 'excellent, everything was balanced and the meat very tender.' It was worth the risk.

The menu is not extensive but there are plenty of great meals to choose from. Helpful for eaters like me who procrastinate endlessly when confronted with too many choices. Syrup serves all day breakfast that mostly consists of egg dishes. For $10 you can get two Devonshire scones (made from local products) with coffee.



Syrup was a great choice for lunch. We ordered (paid a pittance), ate, and had time to chat all within the lunchtime hour. Overall, it was a perfect sized lunch at a great price in a swanky little cafe. I will definitely go back soon.

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