Had the egg Benedict with salmon. The portions were just perfect. The Hollandaise sauce was amazing. This restaurant is now my favourite place for Sunday breakfast.
Hands down the best cafe in the East-everything from their beverages,food,ambiance and customer service is exceptional. We have been coming here for years and always leave happy-highly recommended!
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Still open for business and trading through what must be a tough period for them. Less people inside and reserved signs on alternate tables but still the same friendly team and delicious looking food. Many more patrons doing the take away coffees this morning but we sat out front to escape the rain and ordered a couple of lattes one with a smooth blend (for me) and the other with a sharp blend for KD. These tended to suit us both and were flavoursome although I wouldn’t have minded mine a little hotter. It’s important that people support their local cafes.
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Previous Review 2017
Too cold to get up for brunch today so we made our way to the Food Republic Cafe early afternoon. A fire closed this cafe down in 2016 and I hadn't been back since. It looked similar from the outside but the inside was quite different to how I remember it. Large central share tables, sleek decorative iron look paneling and some really interesting light fittings gave the place a modern feel and the mosaic tiled bar area added a splash of colour.
I ordered a veal parmigiana meal with salad and duck fat potatoes. This was from the specials menu. Kelisi was conflicted with a couple of option but went eventually went for Oatmeal pancakes with blueberry & vanilla coulis, lemon curd and mascarpone. Quick turn around and meals were delightfully presented. Veal was tender and crumb flavoursome. Pancakes were lite and fluffy despite being made with oatmeal flour. Interesting that they now refer to dishes as either Gluten free or Low Gluten on the menu. I haven't seen that before. My only criticism about the whole meal was that the lemon curd, though tasty, wasn't "pucker worthy" and needed more authentic tartiness to balance out the sweetness of the coulis. We finished the meal off with an Italian donut and coffees. Staff were highly attentive regularly coming along and filling water and checking up on us.
Love the cream brûlée! Not a sweet tooth myself but I want to eat this plate off.
Had their special “crispy omelette” nothing crispy about the omelette at all but the crunchy-ness of the shallots & pickled salad & bean shoot which makes it crunchy. I was expecting a crisp sort of omelette. Had mine with pulled pork, flavor ok only not much texture given both are soft. Would had gone for chicken if I would have know it was just a standard eggs omelette topped with pulled pork & pickled veg.
Have other interesting items on the menu which I’ll come back and try.
On arrival we were made to feel welcome with our dog. It was a cold evening and they put the heater on for us where we dined outside. Service was attentive and very friendly. Food was delicious and wine prices were very reasonable. Will definitely return.
Dined here tonight - what a gem of a place! Food was tasty and delicious, service was attentive and friendly, and accommodating. Will definitely return!
Whilst the service was a tad slow because we were sitting outside, the food served here was uber tasty, and may just become our go to breakfast place. The pancakes I got were delish.
Loving this cafe more and more. First came here 2 months ago, love the attentive service. Food is great, my son loves the pork sliders so much. Very warm interior, staff more than happy to accommodate to my many allergies. Friday nights here are becoming a regular thing.
Only good things to say about this place.
Great service, good coffee and good food.
The croissant was very flaky and buttery, and the smashed peas were seasoned to perfection.
The zucchini fritters were filled with zucchini and they weren’t oily. Tick, tick and tick.
Service here was prompt and served the food and coffees warm despite the cold busy morning.
Great place for a good pick me up brunch meal 😋
A really nice modern place to have lunch / brunch with a relaxed atmosphere. The duck fusili pasta is my favourite with its tasty ragu.
Very attentive and polite service - when I wanted to take away my leftover pasta, the waiter even took my plate to the back to do it for me. Much appreciated!
I come here for poached eggs on sourdough toast, served with butter. I’ve had it many times and this place consistently brings happiness by dishing perfectly cooked eggs onto my plate with great bread. The service is always splendid too.
Visited this cafe with a group of people. The service was exceptionally good from being greeted on entry to being served at the table and on paying and leaving - cannot fault the friendly and efficient staff. The atmosphere was good for a conversation - we were a group of 8 people and we could mostly hear each other talk from different ends of the table. Everyone ate their meals without complaint and the servings were a good size. They even split the bill for us so we could each pay for our own order. The only criticism I have is that the vegetarian selection was a bit limited and I would have also liked to have seen some savoury options for quick bites other than just cakes. NOTE - If you can't park on the cafe's parking, be careful where you park in Blackburn as there are parking restrictions everywhere. Street parking is only 1 hour even if there are no appropriate signs.
The food is fresh and clean.
I like the atmosphere there, and parking is so convenient near the restaurant.
Definitely will go there again.
I took few photos already. Love the decoration there .
so friendly service！The seafood is delicious and coffee is great！Will go back again！So many seat to choose if you want sunshine you can seat out
Friend suggesting this cafe for a catch up she said this place has great ambience, she’s wasn’t wrong!
Staff have a smile on their face, nice food and presentation, good coffee, It’s enjoyable.
The cafe has outdoor seating for some sun and kids to run around. Very kids friendly cafe in big group. Go to place for Moms group!
We’ve driven past a few times and finally decided to check this place out. We came late morning and were seated quickly outside. It is roomy inside and has seats for the kids outside and an Astro turf area so is pram and kid friendly. The coffees and meals came out promptly (we had the big breaky and the Royale) and were tasty, and value for money. The smooth latte is one of the best I’ve had in the area.
Overall a pleasant experience, and will be a regular spot for brunch/lunch.
Would be interesting coming back at peak period (Sunday brunch) to see if the experience changes.
I cannot recall the last time a dining experience warranted a 10/10 score on every level.The service,location,decor,menu selection and most importantly the fabulous food were all things that other cafes should aspire to.
I was also incredibly impressed that Phil (the manager) took the time to have the dog bowl moved to the shade and chilled fresh water replaced for our four footed friends to enjoy.
Even though I don't live in the area,this is one cafe that is most certainly worth the drive.
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26 bucks for the The Big, pretty rip if you ask me but it was super filling, and tasted pretty good. Staff were friendly and water on tap was pretty good too, some ice cubes would have been nice though.
Lovely suburban brunch spot! Good coffee and interesting breakfast menu options. The poached egg on polenta was a nice combination of corn crunch and soft oozing yolk. The smoked salmon Benedict was good as well as the chicken croissant. However the standout meal was the chia porridge. This was cooked perfectly without any seediness and a great combination of well presented ripe fruit and crunchy walnuts. Healthy, tasty and full of texture. I love the new renovation too. Modern, elegant decor with leafy surrounds. This place is busy but the service is always friendly and efficient.
Must try for late breaky or lunch...
Paella was too good and creamy (down side served with one prawn only) but lot of fish and calamari.
Lamb Pappardelle needed more seasoning.
Good quality coffee and cake 👍👍
A nice spot for a coffee and brunch in the sun. Good coffee friendly service. Decent grub for the optimistic punter.
A good spot to take ya mum when she is in town for the annual cross stitch knitting festival.
Great atmosphere on a Friday night with live jazz. The service was extremely friendly, not pushy but still attentive. The food was all extremely delicious, especially the desserts. Didn't love the prawn tapas but everything else was great .
Beautifully, friendly service and the waitresses were very knowledgable. Coffee was delicious as were both our meals, changed to fit my intolerances which is always thoroughly appreciated.
Friendly service, nice atmosphere, modern decor, and the pasta dishes are delightful! Good size, very filling, flavoursome, and good value! Less than $50 for 2 people (no entree, no alcohol).
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Love the service here, very friendly. The refit is gorgoues too, love the sparkle in the banquet seating, and the touches of copper everywhere. This place is so popular, it can be hard to find a parking spot.
We've enjoyed breakfast here a couple of times, and the coffee is rated by my coffee-sno...sorry scratch that coffee-fan partner as being one of the best. There is an option of a milder and stronger blend, if I recall, and the strong is the one for He-Who-Must-Drink-Coffee, he raved about it.
Serves are generally generous, though there are some lighter options. We have enjoyed breakfasts including 'Royal' an eggs benedict with smoked salmon, 'Benedict' which is made with smoked ham hock here, and eggs are poached beautifully. 'The Big' which includes eggs the way you like them, sausage, bacon, tomato, mushroom (portobello - magic) and toast and rosti. The rosti is a bit too thick for us.
Lunches of Turmeric and Coconut Prawns from the lighter options worked well - with a side of bread or chips to bulk it up if you like - both the chips and bread are excellent. In fact, the rockling in the Beer Battered Fish and Chips is a stand-out too, perfectly cooked.
I go on and about the disappointment of a poached egg that's hard being the worst thing, but there's one other, that's probably equal to the sigh factor. A 'molten' chocolate cake that isn't. My darling son had never had a molten anything, so couldn't wait to cut into his little cake - alas when he did, all that greeted him was steaming, cooked, cake. I notice that's gone from the menu, I hope it can return with lots of gooey, chocolateliness inside soon.
Winning desserts for me include Fresh Raspberries with Shiraz Jelly, which is all you want it to be, a grown-up version of jelly and cream, with such refreshing notes, you feel like it's a health food. The Lemon Curd Meringue leaves you in no doubt you're in decadent territory, but you just don't care! That's a pretty perfect feeling to finish a meal.
This cafe is a benchmark for all cafes. The decor is pleasing, the food is good and plentiful, there is a choice of coffee varieties incl organic, there are more well trained staff than I have ever seen in any cafe and they all have a smile. What more could you ask for. What's more I ordered a coffee at a peak time and it was delivered in 2 min 45 secs. Impressive!
After finding out it had reopened, my fiance and I decided to try it for brunch. It has a beatiful ambience to it, almost Parisienne the way they have they outdoor tables set up. It was such a beautiful morning, we chose to sit outside and enjoy the sun. The service was prompt and very friendly. They're breakfast range was extensive and I felt spoilt for choice. I ordered the Chai and loved that it came out in a tea pot brewing it's flavors. I decided to go with a healthy option in front of the festive season and ordered the acai bowl. It was delicious, I just wish I had have realised there was going to be icing sugar dusted over it, slightly impaired my attempt to be healthy but I know for next time, because there will definitely be a next time.
We experienced the best service I've ever encountered here. The staff were so helpful and friendly. The food was beautiful. We had the capsicum and feta risotto, maple pork burger, pesto pasta and lamb ragu. Everyone was so impressed with the food. Decor is beautiful. We will be back all the time! Coffees and an almond croissants and Portuguese tarts to finish was delish. 10/10!
After a long awaited return The Food Republic has reopened bigger & better than ever!
Taking on a completely different vibe than the original, this establishment is fresh, classy, the staff are amazing & the new menu is absolutely to die for.
Couldn't recommend it enough, especially for dinner Friday & Saturday nights.
I am a happy customer after visiting this elegant newly reopened restaurant last Sunday. The service is very good. And the food is amazing! I am so tored of those warehouse style cafes and this place saved me. I will definately come back frequently and will recomand to friends!
Stunning looking cafe/restaurant in Blackburn with a lovely outlook. I’ve noticed a friendlier service under the new ownership in recent months.
Coffee is the way I like it - hot and strong.
Haven’t tried many food dishes.
Ashanie Mekhala Perera
+3.5
I have been to this gem of a local eatery a few times over the past few months and, every time, this place has been busy, busy and busy! Originally introduced by a friend of mine, I wasn’t expecting very much for an Eastern Suburbs café, but I am happy to report that I was mistaken!
You can tell that the owners know how to run a great cafe and have a real understanding of service and atmosphere. The staff are all kind and accommodating. The food is tops and very generous with their servings which often lacks in restaurants and cafes that put a lot of focus of the feel of the place.
I'm not a coffee drinker but I've only heard great things from everyone that I've dined with. Will always eat here.
I have come here multiple times without disappointment. It can be so busy but these guys never crumble under the pressure. Coffee is amazing and they always have so many fresh healthy options. I've come here by myself to relax, I just feel that comfortable. I really don't understand how these guys are 5 stars. Can I live here?
I'd heard great things about this place and we weren't disappointed. Awesome decor and atmosphere. I love the sophistication this place has. The food is a little on the pricey side but it's delicious! Coffee is good and staff are quite nice.
Had the crapes and the smashed avocado
Finally made it to this cafe that I've been hearing about, although I live in the area. As I do for the very first time when I visit a new cafe I try their scrambled eggs and a simple cappuccino so I can compare! Very nice indeed! Special mention to how they put the butter on the side rather than on their bread! Very thoughtful of them as some places overdo it. Great customer service! Definitely will be back to try more from the menu and to enjoy the outdoor area when the weather warms up!
One of the best thing about moving is that you get all these new places to try out, and the proximity of The Food Republic to Blackburn station made it high on my list. When I first walked in, I was quite impressed by the interiors and the general vibe, didn't think I'll find a place like this in the suburbs haha.
2018 update - they’ve lifted their game! You’ll always get a friendly greeting and staff that do their best to accomodate your needs. I’ve been enjoying the cold-filter brew, which when served in their balloon glass feels a bit extra special. The babycinos are still pricey though they’ve halved the wafer serving. The smoothies are a hit with the kids though, as is the outdoor seating area with real tree and fake grass. It’s also good on Friday nights for dinner or drinks.
2015-I've been here a few times and enjoyed the space and the coffee. I brought a friend there this afternoon and was faced with a rude waitress and staff that ignored us for 10min after we'd been seated. $18 for a chai latte, green tea and 2 Babycinos also seems over the top. Not sure that will be my first choice next time when the area has a number of great cafes now.
Beautiful place in the local area. Love the outdoors where you can just bring your dog and sit and enjoy a cuppa. Had the best pulled pork benedict so far. Ham was so good and not overcooked. Enjoy the environment and also love it they dont kick you out. Had a really good time catching up with friends.
Eat And Be Merry Crew
+3.5
The interior was like Martha Stewart had landed. The cafe styling was provincale by way of the Hamptons. I loved it. I wish my own house was decked similarly. The menu was brunch focus. I ordered the Eggs Royal which was a benedict but with salmon. So loads of spinach, a few slivers of smoked salmon, poached eggs, Hollandiase on top of split English muffin. This was $19.50. It was ok. I somewhat regretted my choice three quarters into eating it because I found the Hollandaise combined with the smoked salmon a bit sickly rich. But that was my fault for perhaps not making the right choice off the menu.
Quite enjoyed brunch at food republic today. Very friendly and helpful staff. Baby friendly as well. Really good scrambled eggs, and an impressive chicken schnitzel sandwich.
Steph Johnston-Pratt
+4.5
Great place! Really accommodating and friendly staff with lovely food, atmosphere and decor. Owner is professional, helpful. GREAT with kids
AMAZING COFFEE / GENUINE SERVICE / FRIENDLY AND WELCOMING. BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDS IN A PARK LIKE SETTING. FRENCH PARISIAN INTERIORS WITH THE MOST LOVELY PASTRIES AND CAKES IN THE EASTERN SUBURBS. BREAKFAST WAS FRESH AND VERY WELL DONE. MY PARTNER ORDERED OFF THE BRUNCH MENU AND LOVED HIS PULLED LAMB BAGUETTE. JAZZ TUNES WERE OOZING OUT AND THE SUN WAS STREAMING IN FROM THE MASSIVE WALLS OF GLASS LOOKING OUT ON TO THE LAWNS AND TREES. GREAT STAFF WITH SMILES ALL AROUND. WE WILL BE BACK ON FRIDAY NIGHT WHEN THEY DO LIVE JAZZ AND TAPAS. GREAT WINE & COCKTAIL LISTS AS WELL. THIS PLACE IS A MUST SEE...
Great and friendly service marks this out as a place to head when you want decent food served in a clean environment quickly.My husband and I had breakfast here following a recommendation and while we found the breakfast menu to be on the conservative side, they serve great coffee, and the food arrived quickly.Apparently a queue forms for weekend lunches and I can understand why. Well worth the effort.
Marie. Love it! All staff friendly and eager to please. Coffee is addictive (if I'm within a 10km radius, I'll order a take away). Varied and delicious menu. We eat there at least once a week.
Scrambled eggs & chai - you can't go wrong. Have ate here a few times since it took over the previous cafe that I loved at this site.
My favourite place to come to have scrambled eggs & chai.
Love their chai as they do it the proper traditional way of brewing the tea leaves with spices and milk with loads of flavour.
Great place for anytime of the day!
Coffee is amazing here!!! Only place on this side of town that makes a seriously good coffee. Food was also lovely and fresh. Staff are great and this will now be my local A++++
Great food and coffee and good service. Great coffee, strong with plenty of flavour but no bitterness, even the decaf tasted good. I had the smashed avo BLT, I thought it was really delicious but it was a bit different to what you get in other cafes, consisted on sourdough with avocado spread on it, some lettuce, then chopped up tomato and bacon pieces on top of that, a little mayo on the plate. My partner had the big breakfast, he said the scrambled eggs, pork sausage and sourdough were particularly good. Our daughter had a kids meal with crumbed chicken and real homemade potato wedges. Service is bright and breezy, quick and very professional. We sat at one of the outside tables, it was all very pleasant. We will definitely be regulars.
Great local cafe very knowledgeable owners and staff brilliant food and service this place has it all. A personal favourite is the ham omelette. A must try is the house made potato roshti. A must try
Smashed BLT. A little different but still a winner
Lovely cafe. Excellent coffee, pretty much perfect! Great service, even when they are really, really busy, the staff are very attentive and helpful and not stressed, they make time to try and fit you in. We will be back! :)
Loved this place. Not your boring café menu, interesting combinations. Food was delicious and the service was outstanding. An exciting addition to the area
The Food Republic located along Blackburn Road, has good and friendly staffs. The ambience is good. It is really a nice and cosy restaurant. We love their food especially the Omelette with chicken and Atlantic Salmon. The staffs know their menu well and gave us good recommendations.
Excellent hospitality by the staffs especially Darren. He was so attentive, all the food he recommended to us was delish. Feel so close to heart revisiting this cafe, good coffee too!
Nice place for weekend brunch/lunch. Good food, nice and comfortable seating. Service was really quick for a weekend.
Great selection of food and very delicious. Staff are friendly and coffee is made well.
Some of the best food I have eaten, very accommodating towards gluten free and vegan diets.
Extremely well priced for the quality received.
Would not hesitate to go back.
I reckon this is the best cafe in the area. Good coffee, good food, friendly staff and lots of seating options both indoor and outdoor.
Went there for brunch yesterday very friendly staff nice food and environment. Highly recommended
Alireza Bahramzadeh (Ali)
+5
Food was great and cafe has a good vibe, waitress a bit grumpy but not a deal breaker. Visited once again during lockdowns, got beautiful takeaway brioche and burritos. Flat white coffee was nice too
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