Swell Cafe

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Swell is a neat little coffee bar that sets the standard for all cafes that line the northern peninsula. Green vinyl banquettes hug one wall – offering waterproof seating for those fresh from a dip in the ocean – and the few outdoor seats are always populated with locals soaking up a sunny breakfast or lunch. There is but one menu; but it is a master of versatility and contains dishes that are suitable for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. The breakfast panini is a popular choice, filled with prosciutto, baked eggs and roast tomato, and topped with a dollop of caper mayo.

Similarly, the other menu choices give old favourites an interesting twist. The carefully guarded recipe for the homemade baked beans manages to give simple baked beans depth and gravitas (rumour has it that a splash of Coopers is the secret ingredient). Vegetarians are welcomed with dishes like the scrambled eggs on toasts with goat’s cheese and chives. Swell Cafe is the only place in Avalon where you can get a fix of Campos coffee and they know just how to prepare it; cappuccinos are rich and short blacks are sharp. Swell is open from 8am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 8am to 4pm Sunday.

Jennifer Miller