Julio

LOCATION
A short walk from Merri Creek Reserve and a stone’s throw from stop 25 on the 112 tram line.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Julio feels like home no matter where you live or how far you have travelled. Tucked away on a residential street in Fitzroy North, this quaint cafe proves you don’t need foot traffic to get by, although nearby Merri Creek Primary School does provide a helpful flurry of morning mums to the area. Built within the skeleton of a former corner milkbar, Julio harnesses the laidback, local vibe with a relaxed atmosphere and welcoming service. Hints of Spain permeate the menu and influence the cafe’s architectural design, drawn up by local duo i-i. White walls, sanded-back tiles and timber shelves ally with an ornate timber chest coffee counter and concrete block servery, while partially-shuttered, deep-set window frames offer a servery and a cosy space to sit.

Michelle Dufty’s menu is more diverse than many nearby breakfast haunts and offers simple dishes with creative touches. The Spanish tortilla is served with house-made mayonnaise and pantomaca, a delicious tomato-rubbed bread, while the original lentil salad with spinach, fetta and pickled vegetables is fresh and light. If you only have time to grab a sandwich, try the freshly poached chicken breast with rocket, tomato and mayonnaise. But don’t visit Julio without a bite into one of Michelle’s famous bomboline-style doughnuts (only available on weekends) – big, doughy spheres boasting a crunchy exterior and delicious lemony custard or jam filling. Team your sugary delight with a fresh, organic fruit juice or a Coffee Supreme Fairtrade brew – take it away for a screen-printed cup featuring a delightful sketch of the inspiration behind Julio’s name, Paul Simon.

Frank Trimboli