When your half-Italian cousin tells you about a new cafe in Adelaide that is serving up outstanding coffee, you listen. That's how I found myself at The Corner Store Cafe for the first time. The second, third, fourth and fifth visits can be attributed to said coffee, friendly service and a menu catering for a variety of tastes.
The coffee is worth talking about
In the case of many cafes, five visits in the twelve weeks since opening might earn you frequent flyer status, but it is evident that this local haunt is very popular and to be considered a regular you'd have to be here six days a week (and I'm sure many are). But either way, it doesn't seem to matter – the service is always first class.
From 7:30am weekdays a flurry of locals can be seen stopping by for their caffeine fix en route to their day's adventures. The early start is also proving to be another draw card for the cafe to play host to relaxed business breakfasts. On the weekends it's an even race between young families and retirees who have been around long enough to know that they are on to a good thing. With its worthy appeal to so many, it makes booking on weekends highly recommended.
Corner Store Cafe is tucked away in Dulwich and is a hit with the locals
Perfect for those on the run
As a sweet tooth I'm easily pleased by the breakfast menu, especially the section aptly titled "Sweet tooth!!" While the spring menu's waffles were hard to surpass, the new summer menu presents the challenging decision between chocolate buttermilk pancakes and French toast with orange caramel, berries and ice cream. Of course those after something on the savoury and healthier side are also well catered for. The extensive menu makes it hard to avoid the phrase
there's something for everyone.
My new favourite - French Toast with orange caramel, berries and ice cream
While breakfast will always be my preference, the lunch menu is not to be forgotten. Their daily specials are distractingly tantalising and have so far included the likes of a
spiced lamb burger with beetroot relish, bacon, fresh greens and sweet potato chips and a delicious pasta o
f tagliatelle with basil pesto, roasted pumpkin, green olives, pine nuts and goats curd. A 'like' on
Facebook will keep you up-to-date with their daily temptations. And how do you know it's all fresh? The delivery van out the front every morning.
The delivery of goods reminds you the food is all fresh
The variety of the menu coupled with prompt, friendly service has given me great confidence in recommending The Corner Store Cafe to friends, colleagues and even my physiotherapist. Sometimes it's hard to know if your recommendation was well-received, but in the case of one I have no doubts after overhearing this conversation:
Patient to Physio: I tried that cafe in Dulwich you recommended...
Physio: Oh yeah, what did you think?
Patient: Loved it! Thanks, I can understand why your other patient told you about it!
Nestled in the inner-city suburb of Dulwich the local clientele could be described as somewhat discerning, but the sheer volume walking through the door suggests their every need is being met –a credit to the team. Many cafes might find in their first few months they are still finding their way, but led by experienced husband-and-wife team Paul and Makeeley who are ably supported by chef Adrian Breschi, The Corner Store Cafe team haven't missed a beat. The building's transformation into a rustic space is also not to be overlooked, and rumours suggest we can expect further changes in the future. The space is beautifully complimented by work of local artists and restored cabinetry throughout.
The cafe showcases work of local artists
Making beautiful coffee must be easy in such a setting
book on weekends (unlike many busy restaurants these days, bookings here are respectfully honoured). You can choose from outside, inside and courtyard dining.
Get the location right – yes, as the name suggests it is on a corner in Dulwich, but it is not the better-known Dulwich/Stuart Road corner (it's much more serene on Swift Street).
And finally, no matter what meal of the day you're here for, don't leave without having a coffee.
So while I may not be anyone's half-Italian cousin I can recommend to everyone a new place in Adelaide offering plenty more than just great coffee.
