Is It Cafe

LOCATION
Close to the corner of Greville St, a short walk from Prahran train station and from Chapel St.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Is It Café is more than just a sly play on words and adds to the mix of fresh faces in this slowly reviving Greville and Izett Street precinct. Situated in a quaint house, Is It Café has undergone a smart, new fit-out, retaining much of the charm of the building while keeping it fresh and funky. A large chalked menu board and constantly humming coffee machine welcomes diners at the entrance, while out back, a cosy spot by the fire or the small, sunny deck invites hours spent chatting over second and third cappuccinos. The food is all made on the premises with the focus on mounds of fresh vegies, some international influences, and comforting, natural flavours.

Relaxing in the morning sun, our breakfast of chunky avocado with Persian feta is served on sourdough, sprinkled with lemon-tea salt arrives with a tall glass of limonata infused with mint leaves to enliven the Friday morning. A Middle Eastern dish of shakshuka (baked eggs) with chorizo, and a plate of home made baked beans with halloumi cheese goes to a couple huddled by the fire. Comforting soups pepper the menu and when the weekend comes round the chunky vegie and ham hock soup, and the Moroccan lentil soup will serve as hearty brunches for weary eyes. Guests with a sweet tooth indulge in the fluffy pancakes which soak up the syrup of the warm, caramelised banana, while home-baked muffins, brownies and cupcakes make a perfect accompaniment to the smooth coffee. With tasty food, great coffee, free wi-fi and a quiet but friendly vibe, is it worth trying? Is it ever!

Angela Costanzo