Review Lawson Grove Shop - Melbourne

🍝 spaghetti 🥗 superfood salad 🏠: @lawsongroveshop 📍: Lawson Grove, South Yarra 📝: A cute hidden cafe, just a little walk from South Yarra train station. If you love a tiny spot to have a nice cup of coffee or brunch, then Lawson Grove Shop is the place to visit. ❤️: The Spaghetti Meatball here is a must. Pasta is cooked al dente so when you bite into it it’s still chewy—just perfect! You won’t be disappointed. The zesty flavors and mixture of seeds in the Green Super Salad creates a refreshing tasty flavor and delicious combination of textures in the mouth.

Hidden gems that we discovered, love this place! Great atmosphere and vibe and above all else their foods were amazing! Friendly service, would definitely come back here again! Thank you. Oh! Coffee was amazing! They are using veneziano coffee beans.

Cosy little cafe nestled under a old building which predates 1930s. Looking at the shop from the outside give an European kinna feel to it. The coffee is good. I’d have to try the food next time.

Came here today after searching for a new breakie spot. Had good reviews mostly , ordered the bene and chipotle scramble both $25 bene was minimal and chipotle scramble was FAR To spicy with no indication of this on the menu (chipotle is a mild seasoning) was no other seasoning like Salt so was just overpowering spicy and quite disgusting like the eggs were brown. Scraped off all the eggs so I left hungry after eating one piece of cheese on toast and a half palm sized pile of avo. Waitress was rude when telling her and also she hadn’t got a clue what she was doing to start with, She came to us after she had seen us come in and another girl had just seated us and tried to give us a chicken sandwich when we hadn’t even been given menus. Saw her do this on several occasions to other patrons not having a clue where food was going just randomly asking customers is this yous then calling to the other lady “where is this going” Location was fab so a real shame …….but $70 for 2 breakfasts and 2 coffees (which also she got wrong we were served 2 oat milk when my partner ordered a normal cap just no choc) very underwhelming and overpriced.

A hidden gem, that isn’t just a cliche being rolled out to be overly exotic, this place is actually hidden and an absolute gem. It’s been around since 1930, which explains the location as no modern day cafe would allow this location based on lack of foot traffic and other modern day business case rubbish that precludes this type of operation. The people serving are fantastic, the vibe is beautiful, coffee excellent and food is homely and clean. The locals obviously love it but keep the secret close to their chest, it’s worth the walk and just a skip over from the river walking trail.

Amazing food but even better service. Hard to say what is the best thing about this hidden gem. Dog friendly and super child friendly with a box of kiddie toys rolled out by the amazing French waitress who engaged all the kids and dog! Don’t forget the freshly baked doggie biscuits.

Very nice vibe and atmosphere, great place to hide from the bustle of South Yarra. Does not support a vegan diet, wouldn't come here to eat if that's what you're after. Expensive for small things, this toast with avocado and Vegemite was $13.20. Cost of ingredients is probably $3.20 so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Their filter coffee costs $5 but isn't worth that much in my coffee loving opinion. But if you're looking for a brunch that's not vegan away from traffic then I would recommend this spot.

The cafe in the traditional building, serving good coffee! Located in residential area, but worth visting!

Hidden gem!<br/><br/>This cute cafe has a warm feel tucked away from main streets. I enjoyed the sunshine brunch salad and loved everything about it! Eggs poached well and a delicious grains salad with pumpkin purée. My friends also enjoyed the chilli scramble and what happen to my steak?

Came back here for breakfast a few years after a first visit. I believe the place is under new management and the service subsequently left a fair bit to be desired; aside from the food taking close to 30 mins to arrive, the wrong item was brought out and it took a further 15 minutes to rectify it. Whilst the food is good, the prices are however also somewhat higher than what you’d expect to pay at other similar cafes.

Great little place serving coffee and delicious food. Breakfasts are amazing and dogs are welcomed outside too, they even have their own bed & bowl provided! Staff are very friendly & the place a warm & relaxed atmosphere.

A hidden gem under the lemon tree. Obviously their nice coffee, yum food and friendly staff members that made it kept going. Had tasty vegetarian soup lots of variety mushroom with broccolis and yum sweet potato fritters. It’s a pity we couldn’t finish seems a big potion for us. Definitely come back try others.

Had breakfast at Lawson grove shop today. I don’t normally write any reviews, but today I’d like to say ”awesome”! My girlfriend and I ordered the Eggs Benedict and Chipotle scramble, they are just perfect! Coffee is tasty, staff are lovely. Nothing fancy but everything cosy.

My favourite place in Melbourne, nothing too fancy but unique，food is amazingly fresh and tasty, and it was exactly what I want. It is an everyday local cute cafe worth you walk a bit down there. That why they always busy even hide in the apartments.

Sh.....Really don't want more people know this place. It's small and beautiful. Comfort as my mum's home..... Coffee is very nice, food is delicious, fresh and always give me surprise. Staff are friendly and sometimes make cold jokes. I am so enjoy here. Real hidden gem.

I'm a local in the area and can confirm Lawson grove has been sold and is under new management, I'd like to say there have been some nice touches to the place the menus have been upgraded and changed a bit, the quality of the food is a little hit and miss sometimes it's great other days not so good. coffee is decent and the drinks seem to have gone up in price (so I've heard I normally only get coffee). the decorations have been changed and while it's welcome it feels a little dark and cramped. the cake cabinet looks sad the quality of the cakes have been lost and the signs to know what they are arent there. all the old staff are gone which is sad, new ones have been bought in. I know the cafe itself is meant to be open till 4 for cakes and coffee yet the past few times when I've gone up at 3-3.30 they've been closing up and the coffee machine has been shut off. new management seem to be struggling to find their feet and the locals have stopped going as much, sad to see cause i want to like the place and love what the cafe represents but that's hard to do at the moment. think they need to make a few more changes to bring back the local business.<br/>- a south yarra local

After an argument with the old lady owner 6 months ago, we decide to have a coffee there on hot Sunday morning. Lucky we didn't meet her, saw a few new faces, we all tried the coffee , the coffee were very good , the Asian boy made us lovely coffee with beautiful swans .Definitely coming back ,its such a cool spot in the hidden Southy.

Has Lawson’s Grove been sold or under new management??? I think has been a favourite for years and after a short absence, I visited today and it was deathly quiet, new staff, average food and no vibe?!?!?

Was in the area and wanted try some place different away from the crowded strip on Chapel Street. Going through the reviews, it seemed like you were either going to love this place or hate it so I decided to find out myself. <br/><br/>The asian girl mentioned in the previous review was nowhere to be seen, but still went ahead with a coffee. Indeed my flatwhite was scalding hot, think almost like long black kind of hot. The lady with the short hair making the coffee looked like she'd rather be anywhere else than the shop, which might explain the terrible coffee served up. After putting one and one together I'm assuming that's Jen the owner (playing with the dog outside etc). Debated on whether to ask for the coffee to be remade but decided against it as the barista didn't look like she'd take it well. <br/><br/>Ordered their chipotle scrambled eggs it was satisfying, from the looks of what's being served to other patrons food seem to be their strong point and the reason why I'm giving a 2 instead of initial 1 for the review. <br/><br/>Won't be returning as there are plenty of cafes around the area serving up much better brews and customer service.

Only get a coffee if you see the Asian girl making it. She made us the first round and was great so we decided to get another.<br/><br/>Joined the slow moving line for more than 5mins just to order another round of coffees. An old lady was making the coffee by then. She looked unhappy and angry. Perhaps her poor attitude contributed to the bad quality coffee. Half my glass of latte was froth and the milk was scalding hot.<br/><br/>My advice is to check who is making the coffee before you place your order. The coffees were worlds apart.

The Lawson Grove shop has been my local for years; Hidden at the bottom of a heritage apartment block on Lawson grove, this gem is south yarra's best kept secret! If you've visited the cafe more than once the staff will know your name and the coffee you drink. The lovely owners Jen & Paul, really understand customer service, quality food & coffee! There is so much heart in this cafe, and that's why people come back!Honestly I'm yet to enjoy a coffee as much as I do here. The menu is tasty but unpretentious and well priced for what you get. I don't really like eggs but I crave them from Lawson Grove; they are cooked to perfection and my mother who is the fussiest woman I know won't eat them anywhere else. I tend to have my coffee and work from there most days, because they are warm & inviting and don't mind at all. I love the breakfast and lunch menu & I highly recommend the homemade gnocchi after 12. Yum!! This is a cafe I take people visiting Melbourne for an iconic Melbourne experience :)

I stay at an AirBnB nearby and was recommended by my host to visit this local cafe. I went down both yesterday and today because of the convenience, definitely not on my list the next time I visit Melbourne.<br/><br/>Bad management are the only words to describe this place.<br/><br/>There is a sign informing people that their dog is still in training, so why are they leaving their dog at the front of the shop?<br/><br/>It leaps and barks at other dogs that come to the shop. The sudden loud barks seemed to give a fright to some customers sitting nearby.<br/><br/>Yesterday, it was barking at this little sweetheart that came in with her mother. I was walking behind them to get to the toilet and I saw the owner telling the mother off. The poor lady apologised to the owner. I was furious when I heard the lady saying sorry for their dog's action.<br/><br/>Happened to leave the shop when they were leaving. Heard the mother telling her daughter to hide the butterfly net away from the dog so it won't bark at them again or else "Jen will be angry".<br/><br/>So I assume all the previous bad reviews that mentioned about an old lady was referring to the owner, Jen.<br/><br/>Today, I heard Jen yelling at a customer to grab her child who was walking around the shop.<br/><br/>I don't understand how can a business owner has such bad attitude towards the customers. She was stomping around the shop looking angry. She was shunning customers at the counter and looking really annoyed to take our order but we were told to order at the counter!<br/><br/>Maybe she has anger management issue since I watched her told 2 customers off on both days that I visited.<br/><br/>Today didn't look that busy but I was told that the wait on food was 30mins. Went ahead to order but food took about 45mins instead. I wander if this is the norm?<br/><br/>To top things off, the shop is really filthy! I saw roaches around the shop while waiting for my food. I was waiting to use the toilet and saw a huge rat came out from the back where there is a sign that says do not enter.<br/><br/>This place deserves to appear on Kitchen Nightmare!

Ive come here dozens of times. Coffee is good, food has always been good too. It's got a great relaxed feel which I prefer to the bustling other cafes around the area. I don't feel like I need to smash down my food and give up my table. I see the same faces in there most weekends, so I guess they must be onto something.

We have countless great cafes to choose from, but we come here religiously. The staff are lovely, the food & coffee are always great and the atmosphere is consistently relaxed and friendly- a true local gem. It's my favourite spot to sit outside with the paper on the weekend without feeling like I need to rush to give up my table.

A great little cafe with a relaxed local vibe. My partner and I have visited a few times recently and really enjoyed our experiences! The staff are friendly, coffee is great and the food is exceptional! We love how the lunch menu changes with what's in season and the staff seem to be really passionate about the produce they use.<br/>My pick from the menu would be the chipotle scrambled eggs - the scrambled eggs would have to be some of the best I have ever had and the chipotle adds a nice amount of heat. Also delicious with some bacon on the side ;)<br/>Will definitely be visiting again in the future!

Friendly waitress.. she was making coffee for somebody.. took time to greet us from behind the coffee machine and took our complicated drink orders..<br/><br/>She was very busy.. didn't see her write down our orders.. i was hesitant and worried initially.. in just minutes.. she got a tray of coffees ready and waiting for us at the register..<br/><br/>Good memory.. got the different sizes and milks and sugars quantity right.. very patient.. notes written on every lid.. i am impressed..<br/><br/>I thought she was the only one working.. but i think we saw the old lady that the previous reviews were talking about.. she was outside feeding something to the brown dog when we were leaving.. saw her clearing tables right after that.. without washing her hands..<br/><br/>Not sure if we are coming back now.. someone sould inform the owners to read these reviews.. they should do something.. it's a shame.. coffees taste really great

It's a busy joint. These patrons need to know how FILTHY this joint is and AVOID it for their own health and safety!<br/><br/>An old lady was playing with a dog outside the shop when we entered. We took a look at the menu and joined the queue to place our order. <br/><br/>TO OUR HORROR, the same old lady came straight in to serve the line. The SAME hands that touched the dog was then taking orders into the kitchen and serving drinks to the tables etc!<br/><br/>SUCH UNHYGIENIC BEHAVIOURS SHOULD NOT BE TOLERATED OR CONDONED.<br/><br/>You know the ending to this story. WE LEFT BEFORE IT WAS OUR TURN TO ORDER.<br/><br/>I can't believe not a single review had mentioned about this! Comment if you have had similar experience. People need to know!

First time giving a bad review. Such a pity as food is great here.<br/><br/>Been visiting since moving into the area last year. Better service rendered on weekdays with shorter wait time on meals. Orders have to be made at the counter on weekends and meals take more than 30mins. Only visit if you have two hours to spare for breakfast. Alternatively, go for an early breakfast to avoid the crowd.<br/><br/>They might have had or are undergoing a change of management. Staff members have been changing and there had been changes on the menu and prices have definitely surged.<br/><br/>Customer service standard has visibly dropped. Visited few weeks ago with a vegan friend. The girl could not answer our questions regarding vegan options. We approached the counter in hope to ask the other guy but he was too busy and seemed to be struggling with the number of people waiting for takeaway coffees. We ended up getting takeaway coffees. Waited 15mins for our drinks and got the wrong order. My vegan friend got a regular milk coffee instead of almond milk. That was a real disappointment.<br/><br/>George loves the crispy roesti on their special menu. We used to pay $16.90-$19.90 depending on the variation. We were shocked to be charged $22.90 the last time we visited. The roesti was smaller with few salmon slices. We also ordered the egg florentine. Two thin pieces of muffins with greens, eggs and hollandaise sauce for $18.90. The lady that took my order was pushing really hard for me to add on sides for our meals. Despite saying no initially, she continued recommending that I should be adding on an extra egg for the roesti and some ham for the egg florentine.<br/><br/>Not sure what is happening, but we might have to make somewhere else our local café if prices keep increasing and that lady (I think she is the boss since I have seen her playing with and taking a dog out for walks previously) keeps pushing for sale.

Favourite since I stumbled across this place almost two years ago. Cosy, inviting - very attentive staff.<br/>Can get a little loud, but deal with it - best omelette in town.<br/>Parking is also hard, but sometimes use Alexander Parade and walk up, then you won't have an issue.<br/>Seriously best kept secret and also why I've not reviewed it for so long. DELISH!

Super disappointed with pretty much everything here. This is our local cafe but after not having been there for over 7 months (due to a previous poor experience) I'd forgotten my previous frustration with it.<br/>After arriving and joining the queue with the intentions of getting a quick takeaway brekkie, I couldn't see the menu anywhere near the till, so was hoping my memory would help with my order. I'm a veggie but my partner isn't, so I wanted one of their breakfast toasties (egg and bacon on relish) for him, and I wanted the same but without the bacon and to have the egg well done (runny yolk is grosssss). So I asked for that, only to be told the chef 'doesn't do well done eggs'. I've literally never heard this from any cafe or restaurant, ever. <br/>With a growing queue and added pressure behind me I asked if they had any veggie toasty options. The girl behind the till said they do, and offered me a HAM and cheese toasty... HAM. Whatev. No biggie. <br/>Ignoring this I went ahead and got one of their brioche brekky buns (which couldn't even fill up my cat).<br/>When it came to paying, I was pretty shocked with how exy the whole thing was. $28 for a toasty, brioche and coffee (which btw tastes burnt AF). Yikes. Then I settled in for the 25 minute wait for my takeaway breakfast.<br/>Hopefully next time I feel like going I read the reviews and come across mine from today which should snap me out of it. Really wanted to love this cafe, but it doesn't make it easy.<br/>There are plenty of other good, local cafes, such as Cafe Gaia, Pillar of Salt and Cantina (previously 'Rustica') on Swan Street if you're in the area.

Great attention to detail, perfect brunch menu and fresh. All served in a relaxed environment. Too good to be true but it is!<br/><br/>This is our go to favorite local.

I can't believe it took me so long to come to this place! Shameful, given I live a pleasant 15 minute walk along the river from it. It's a beautifully converted art deco place, with plenty of al fresco seating. Orders are placed at the front counter (which I thought was a little odd, but anyway), and the service was really friendly. I ordered the chipotle scramble with the avo and cheese, and it was enormous! The eggs were really good, though the avo was slightly unripe (bad time of year for them, I think). At around $15, it was an absolute bargain. There's a really lovely vibe around this cafe, and sitting in the sun was an absolute treat (I thought inside was slightly too dark). Will definitely come again for the lentils - they sounded fantastic!

My son is a regular here, and shouted me breakfast one morning. I was so impressed with the food, as well as the general atmosphere and the friendly staff. It's a long way from home, but certainly worth the drive for a special treat!!

This place is hidden away from Toorak road where the general punters stroll - the people who go here are either local or seek it out. There's a reason people seek it out, for the same reason I did, which is this is a cafe that feels like no other. <br/><br/>Built into the bottom of an old art deco building, on a street you could mistake for somewhere in Paris; the atmosphere here certainly feels a lot more communal and on a sunny day nothing beats sitting outside on the street side where man and his best four-legged friend come to relax. <br/><br/>Of course, this is all fine and dandy but without good food who cares, right? Well, lucky the food rocks too. I've had a few of the dishes, the gnocchi, the salad, but I've never had eggs as good as those spicey chipotle scrambled eggs - wowsa!<br/><br/>Do yourself a favour. Grab your wallet, grab your dachshund and head down to Lawson Grove for a Sunday brunch and let the good time roll!

I came here during the week to have lunch with a friend. My toddler was asleep in the pram inside and they were very accommodating about it. It was a Monday so it was fairly quiet and there was plenty of room for a pram. This place is a lovely hidden gem. The food and the atmosphere is homely and delicious, I had the lentils and it came with home made flat bread which was amazing! They had a specials menu which is nice if you're a regular. They also have little chairs and tables outside for the older kids and when the weather is nice. I'm definitely coming back.

Some cafes have a unique quality; a feeling; that is a reflection of many aspects of their fabric contrasted with your own broader personal experience. At Lawson Grove there is a warmth that is rare.<br/><br/>It could be the tucked away, leafy location, at the bottom of an art deco apartment building. It could be the friendliness of the staff and owners, or even the customers. It could be the quasi deli and milk bar type offerings. As that great Australian film summarised, perhaps it is “the vibe”.<br/><br/>One thing is for sure, all of these facets do not matter unless the food and coffee are up to the same level. At Lawson Grove they always are, and often exceed, what is needed to be talking about coming back before you leave.

I love stumbling across this place every now and then. It's cute little homely atmosphere makes you feel right at home. It's almost like having a communal breakfast in someone else's house. Brilliant concept..!!<br/>Friendly service with a smile, last time I was here there was no eftpos and the beautiful lady let us walk to the atm and come back at a later hour to look after the bill. Amazing humble people that deserve our business.

Love the place! Love the people! Love the food! <br/>Only issue..... The coffee!!! It's not how it's made, it's the flavour.. Unfortunately every time I come here as much as I want to love everything here, the coffee that's used here is really just not great! It's much too weak and milky.. My only advice would be for the cafe to invest into some much better and higher quality beans!! Pleaseeeee.. I just love it here otherwise!!!

Was the lady making coffee born deaf and determined to make the rest of the neighbourhood share her pain? When she smashed her coffee thing as hard as she could was she doing so to dislodge the decades of wax built up in her ear canal? I really wanted to love this cafe, but WOW the lady bashing the coffee to clear out the thing was so incredibly loud that me and my friends couldn't enjoy our meal! I mean it was pretty good fare (if overpriced) and the coffee was good, but I mean, maybe she should take up kickboxing and let out her stress that way. Ouch, my head.

Beautiful atmosphere at Lawson Grove!<br/>Our waitress was attentive and friendly. Had great knowledge of the menu. My boyfriend had the burger and I had the gnocchi - both were perfectly cooked and flavourful. A favourite!

We live just nearby and we love the local friendliness. Food is amazing, coffee is good. Owners are very hospitable! We feel super lucky we can just walk down whenever we like. They have efpos now which is even better!!

Loved this cafe. Great breakfast. Cozzy. Great attention. Great food. Best un Southyarra. Woukd love to live in Melbourne to go more often. Have to go! Great attention!

Wow, what a feed!. One of the best local secret café restaurant experiences I have ever had! I have recently relocated to Germany and miss this food in this establishment more than Australia itself (that is a statement). The Chef takes extreme pride in his recipes, incredibly high standards of ingredients, tastes to die for and choices to make every mouth water. My wife and I have never left hungry or dissatisfied. If only we could find an establishment of this calibre in Deutschland. Hats off to Lawson Grove, the first place we will visit when we come to Melbourne Town! P.S. the Chipotle Egg breakfast is out of this world, my wife struggles to choose between all breakfast options.........Try it yourself. <br/>Dane & Anna. (food lovers)

You’ll find The Lawson Grove Coffee Shop nestled beneath a huge fir tree hidden down a little art deco cul de sac in South Yarra, its one of those places that if you didn’t know it was there you wouldn’t find it, which adds to its charm. You’ve got your little tables dotted outside in the sun but we always end up inside on the large share table pretending to do something productive but in reality I’ll be reclining amongst the cushions more than likely people watching...

It took me five years of living in South Yarra before finding out about this hidden gem. Hidden away in the backstreets of the suburb, off Caroline Street, this place has everything a Sunday breakfast should of

Great burger! I had an awesome burger for lunch today that was completely unexpected! Great place tucked away not too far from the city but feeling very suburban. On the larger size and $17.50. It’s not on the menu every day (in fact this was the first time offered) but I’m expecting it to be offered more often! Burger Thursday has never tasted so good.

The sandwich itself was just amazing. The lettuce used was extremely fresh, green and crunchy. The tomatoes used were firm and juicy while the chicken – oh, the chicken! It was PERFECTLY poached and pulled apart, generously dressed with a deliciously creamy (but not over-powering) mayonnaise. The thing I loved about this dish was that it had a completely “home-cooked” feel to it, but tasted just that little bit too good to be made by mum (or the boyfriend / girlfriend!).

I had the gourmet hamburger which was excellent! Coffee here is great! As is the service!

There is something very endearing about The Lawson Grove Shop. Located in the basement of an art deco apartment block in a quiet South Yarra cul de sac, this cafe/general store is local favourite. With its no-fuss interior, eclectic furniture and boxes full of toys at-the-ready, it is a relaxed, family-friendly spot for a lazy weekend brunch.

Big Fil and I have taken to walking from the city to South Yarra station after work (actually he shows me the sights and I follow like a novice being instructed by a master of local knowledge), and the area around Lawson Grove is one of those places through which we seem to be walking regularly. And it's not surprising. The Lawson Grove shop is located in the basement of the Beverley Hills apartments in Lawson Grove, South Yarra, one of a series of buildings designed by architect Howard Ratcliff Lawson in a style described as "Hollywood art deco". Now the tour guide stuff is out of the way, I can say I admire this style and the way the apartments seem to mould themselves to the hill they're built on. Another interesting anecdote too, before I make this review more about the building than the food, is that the Beverley Hills apartments were designed without kitchens and instead a communal kitchen was set up in the basement … and this is now the home of the Lawson Grove Shop. Cool huh!

What a find!. This is a great little place. I live on Caroline Street, and didn't even notice it was there, right at my doorstep! I now have a great go to place only 30 seconds from my door. Lovely food and service with a humble ambiance. Hot chocolates are perfect too - I am very fussy, so that is always a hard one to get right!

What a gem! Hidden away in this quiet residential street, this place offers fantastic food, coffee & service. A tasteful & well designed seasonal menu, cleverly devised by the new owners (who took over the reigns in May 2014). This place is a must for serious food lovers!

Great little place for breakfast or lunch - coffee is top notch - service personal and attentive - the omelette with feta was excellent. Jen & Paul, the new owners, have started something seriously great, and by the full restaurant today clearly others agree. Big tick from me.

Unpretentious in South Yarra? Yep!. Great spot. Unpretentious. Solid coffee & food. Friendly service. The way local cafes should be.

Wonderful neighborhood secret

A great place that will stand the test of time. Have always loved this place and will continue to do so. Its a little gem.

Went here for lunch on Saturday for the first time as I recently moved into the area - what a find! A cosy oasis in the heart of South Yarra with a lovely ambience. Small but varied and inspired menu, I could have eaten any of the dishes on offer. I had a delicious homemade tomato-based gnocchi - light fluffy, perfectly balanced and so yum! My companion ordered the quesadilla - a fresh and tasty bite that looked so pretty I had food envy. Finished off our meal with some interesting herbal tea from T2 and some yummy old-school cupcakes with passionfruit icing.<br/><br/>Staff are friendly, knowledgable and clearly know the importance of using quality ingredients in their dishes - some seriously good food here people, don't listen to any of the negative reviews on urbanspoon.<br/><br/>Can't wait to go back, maybe for breakfast next time....

Had brunch here with my partner and we loved this little spot! The food was tasty, fresh and clean produce and the service was excellent. Loved the mini grocery store with some fabulous and unique ingredients. Compliments Jen - we will be back!

Disappointing:(. I expected more from this brunch spot, given a friend's recommendation. On first sight, the cafe seemed a bit dark and dreary inside, though the staff were friendly enough. The menu was not very extensive, and despite some dubious reviews on Urbanspoon, we decided to go ahead with our orders.My main gripe with my meal would have been that it was far too simply presented, the portions too small and that the breakfast items should have been more of a gourmet standard given the price. I ordered two poached eggs on toast, one sausage and mushrooms as extras. I also had to pay an extra $1.50 for tomato relish which I think should have just been standard with the meal, as it is in quite a few of the other brunch venues I have been to.When my plate was presented, the two poached eggs (though beautifully done), were sat on top of a very hard piece of simple toast, I only had four mushrooms that were cooked whole and balanced on top of each other, and the sausage (beef) was curled up in a corner and wasn't very flavorful.It took me many attempts to cut my toast without it springing off my plate (one piece did)- so I resorted to using my hands to bite it..and thought that I would break my teeth! The tomato relish and egg yolk that I spread on the toast did nothing to soften it. All together, I found the meal to be fairly substandard for the total cost of AUD 17.50 and I was quite disappointed.<br/>To be fair, my friend ordered the baked eggs with creamed spinach and polenta and although she enjoyed that dish, she also remarked that the toast was uncomfortably hard and difficult to eat.<br/>My suggestions for this establishment would be- use softer bread that doesn't become a piece of rock when you toast it, use sausages of a higher quality, and include more on the plate so your customers feel like they are getting the bang for their buck. Just my two cents worth!

Yummy Brunch!!!. First visit and very impressed. Beautiful food, great atmosphere, I'll definetely be back, highly recommended!!!!

Hidden treasure!. Tardis-like cafe located among a vintage art deco tree lined street. Had the smoked salmon with coriander and avocado salsa. Fresh, quality ingredients, and oh so tasty! Cosy, cute feel with friendly staff. Make a mean latté too. Perfect way to start the day!

Lawson Grove Shop is a real find. It's a quirky little place with character, tucked away in a cute little cul de sac. I had the baked eggs with spinach and polenta and it was delicious, I recommend it! Definitely going back.

Disgusting! STAY AWAY. Absolutely bloody terrible is an understatement. Worst of all this used to be one of my favourite places in Melbourne.<br/><br/>First time back in about a year, and it was the worst breakfast I have ever paid for - overpaid in fact.<br/><br/>Eggs were disgusting, could not taste the chipotle at all, and the lattes were mostly water.<br/><br/>We didn't even finish, and I would have walked out without paying if I hadn't paid when ordering - maybe that's why Lawsons Grove ask you to pay upfront?<br/><br/>Worst breakfast ever - don't bother. This once great place has gone down the toilet.

Horrible! I have never felt so awkward and unwelcome in a cafe. Waitresses attend to you with a vague expression, the owner just mills around the counter with an air of disinterest. It's just rude.<br/>The coffee is BAD! There are not many options on the menu and the food is quite bland and boring. I'd read Matt preston's review, singing its praises, from 2008, but it appears I've missed the Lawson Grove Shop's hey day. How disappointing.

Bad experience. Walked there in hope for a yummy brunch, go there to find staff were very rude and had no interest, did not show any signs of even wanting to be polite. Did not take card and were very rude about me cancelling my order becuase I didnt have cash. Shocking service, Will never go there again!!!

Love it, reminds me of my favourite cafe in Rio in Brazil. It's got a local vibe in the backstreets of South Yarra. Plus the food quality is incredible. Definate yes from me.

Fabulous!. I went with friends for brunch and had scrambled eggs with avocado and mushrooms - absolutely delicious. Great coffee too (but could be hotter).

What has happened to this place. It use to be a great spot. Went back today had not been for over a year. Menu was very boring the whole place looks dirty and front of house seemed disinterested. Never going back.

Happy to call this my local. Great coffee and I just love the setting and decor. Looking forward to being snug in the warm ambience during the colder months. On the whole the staff are friendly, attentive and quick but also know how to leave you in peace. Have caught a couple of too-cool attitudes but I won't lose sleep over it. Food is far too pricey for what you get, though.

Don't kid a kidder. So I went to the Lawson Grove shop Cafe during my recent visit to Melbourne and I have to say, who do they think they are fooling? The coffee was average at best, the service was remeniscent of an outer suburban school canteen but the prices were recognisably Toorak. My trip was before Christmas and I assumed that is why the staff looked so harried until I caught a conversation between the chef and a lanky character I have to assume was the manager. These two hetorosexual men were more scathing toward their staff and patrons than 2 drag queens who were former teachers at a Bernard Gayner rally. <br/>I don't care how organic the eggs are, $6.00 for half a dozen is ridiculous, as were the 3 ramicans I received on the plate with my Eggs and toast.

Über cool cafe in a great location. Lovely food offering, great coffee and brilliant location tucked away in a fabulous, rambling old building. Staff are extremely friendly, wifi is free and there's even stuff to buy and take home if you don't want to cook!

Lawson Grove average. Went on Sunday had scrambled eggs on advacado on taost with chipotle eggs not cooked enough. won't go back.

Eggs & Soldiers hit the spot! Great little cafe, will be back!

Don't try and find parking in Lawson Grove! (It's a tiny - even by South Yarra standards - no through road.) Food is good, the place is a lot bigger inside than it looks and I found the service friendly.

Nice Vibe. I like atmosphere at this place, I don't think it's trying too hard to be something that it isn't. I only wish the menu was bigger, with a few extras that popped out. Muesli wasn't great but the BLTs compensate!

Mmmm. Another hip place, the cafe to go to ....apparently. Self promotion in abundance, but you get the distinct feeling,that whatever they said or did, the masses would flock,simply because it's the place to b.Food is okay,, nothing that hits you in the face like a Tom and Jerry iron.Trying too hard to be quirkily down to earth, and the somewhat bohemian clientele present on my last few trips..put me off.

Very disappointed! We loved this place until my husband and I went this morning. I am 38 weeks pregnant and asked if I could have my egg well done and the chef said no! Even after the nice chap behind the counter explained it was because I was pregnant he said no. Thanks Chef, we won't be coming back again. It's a shame your arrogance will result in many of our other friends not going back either. I hope the owner doesn't hold the same view. Very unhappy.

Up until yesterday, I'd only had (fantastic) coffee here. I finally made it for lunch, pulled pork tacos, two gorgeous little tacos, plenty of pork, coriander, pineapple, and when I requested extra chilli on the side, a cute little basket with 4different sauces appeared, 2 Habanero sauces from Mexico included! I was a happy little chilli addict, eating these delicious tacos. Got a homemade monte carlo to seal the deal, go there soon!

In love with the baked eggs!!! Best think about winter!

Terrible experience. They refused to cook my eggs the way I wanted them (not runny)...claiming that they were well known for their runny eggs....the four of us walked out never to return....apparently they don't realise that the customer gets what the customer wants....there are plenty of other places to go!! don't bother with this one...totally rude and pretentious.

Overpriced food & attitude. I went a few months ago and ordered scrambled eggs on toast with sides. I repeated to the waitress that I dont like half cooked raw yolk on my eggs. Low and behold that is how the scambled eggs came out. I queried this and the owner came out and said thats how we do it and we dont do it any other way. sorry. Then i had to get the waitress's attention to ask for a steak knife as the bread was hard as a rock. They made a whole fuss - i ended up paying quite a bit and losing my toast and hitting my friend next to me as i tried hard, with no success to cut the bread. Not happy considering we waited over 45minutes to get the above!

Ritual. So Lawsons Grove is another of our melbourne rituals. Weekend run around the tan followed by coffee and breakfast at Lawsons Grove. In such a random yet gorgeous location the food is delicious staff are quick and always friendly and the milk bar/cafe feel is adorable! only issue is parking... well I guess we are out to exercise after all so i won't complain ;)<br/><br/>Xx

This place was ok but not a one $ cafe! Most things on breakfast menu cost more than $15... Coffee was great tho.

When I think "coffee, breakfast" my mind immediately thinks of lawsons. Simple food Cooked well. Cute little hidden spot. Awesome coffee. Always a good start to my day. Loving lawsons :)

Glad to see the place Ben and I built has gone from strength to strength. On my my way back next year to see the improvements Big Ben has made. Miss the Grove and all the great customers, more power to Ben for improving on where we left off. Still one of the best places in MELBOURNE for a great coffee and food. Cheers to all the customers and friends to the Grove. Terry

What a find!

I had my birthday brekkie at Lawson Grove Shop with the girls. Mixed feelings about this one. The food & cute location was good. One disadvantage is it's CASH ONLY and no atms nearby. Also the waiter taking my order made fun of the fact that I wanted a coffee in one of their mugs. He was like, you want half a litre?? My question is why would you have these mugs on display for everyone to see if you are going to laugh at a customer for ordering one? I just wanted a mug so that my coffee didn't go cold, that's all!

Subpar south of the river. Has the makings of such a great spot - great location, beautiful surroundings.. however poor service cannot be justified amidst this.<br/><br/>Poached eggs 'well done' are not tolerated here - which is fine with me, but it seems if they take such a line with their food, strong care and attention to detail should be consistent.<br/> <br/>The eggs we did get 'not well done' were lukewarm - they'd clearly been sitting on the side of the plate for five minutes-, the avocado portion was measly (1/4 of an avo!) particularly considering the hefty price, one slice of bland white toast and half a tomato (also cold). This plus a coffee was $24.<br/> $24 seems standard fare - but not for poor food, pathetic portions, and service with an attitude - on all of the multiple times I've been there staff always give the impression we're an inconvenience - through remarks and raised eyebrows - I always end up apologizing but I'm not sure for what.<br/><br/>I love the location and so always hope it will be better next time I visit.<br/>But they're rude and the food's crap so I give up.<br/><br/>Ps the ricotta they sell for $7.50 is $3.00 at other shops north of the river.

Half rasher of bacon doesn't = a $3.50 'addition'! When there are SO many fantastic places in Melbourne, even south Yarra, serving up excellent & reasonable breaky fares, why bother with a joke...

It feels like being in San Francisco. I am always reminded of Armistead Maupin's Tales of the City when I visit this cute little cafe that is tucked away in what feel's like a block of apartments of San Fran. The cafe is homely and dark with a small but good menu, lovely coffee and great staff. It's usually very busy and there's seats outside in the sun - if you're lucky enough to nab one! Lawson Grove Shop has good selection of take home meals.

Hide and seek. Lovely place in summer or winter. <br/><br/>nothing like porgie and mr jones standard food but way above average.

Food was ok, but nothing special. Staff were friendly and helpful. Food was overpriced. Parking was a struggle.

A complete joke!! Wouldn't let me order my poached eggs cooked firm! May like to learn the old adage, the customer is always right! The upside however... Left here and went to Picnic on Toorak Rd. Great service and great food!

Italy like cafe. Cute little place which makes you feel like you are in italy nice food and drinks and friendly staff

Hidey hole. I love the location the way the cafe is hidden <br/>wonderful coffee and great food makes it my number 1 coffee and breakfast place <br/>I don't mind ordering at a counter, the staff have always been friendly to me <br/>and I agree with the no variations I am no chef it is their creation , would you order a painting then ask for it to be changed to purple ??

LOVE IT!!. I am a local to the Lawson Grove Shop, and have visited for brunch twice now. I really can't fault it! The staff are absolutely lovely, to the point where they gave me and my boyfriend an 'IOU' because we didn't have cash (only card). When we went back later that day to pay, they were courteous and happy to have helped us out. The food is lovely. I have tried the chicken sandwich and the breakfast crepes (both specials on the day). Also worth mentioning they have free Wi-fi! The perfect complement to a lazy Sunday brunch!<br/>I'll be back soon!

So cute!. Living just around the corner in domain road, this place is one of Melbourne's best kept secrets.<br/><br/>nothing better then taking the dogs down there and sitting out the front for hours! staff are great and so is the food. love that its quite and no cars drive past just walking customers.<br/><br/>has a local feel many other places don't have!

AGR. I wouldn't bother with Lawson Grove. I went there the other day and even though I told them I was pregnant they blatantly refused to cook my eggs hard. <br/><br/>Even after they were served & I asked them to re-cook they refused. The only option was to receive my money back. However, the guest that I was with had to pay in full. <br/><br/>What's more - If you order "extra" bacon make sure you ask for 2 X serves as you only get 1 round cut of bacon. If you ask me - there's not much bang for your buck given a serve of bacon is $4.50!!!

Whilst comments around staff, etc are accurate (I stopped eating there for this reason) they do make the best BLT I have ever eaten.

Very gorgeous place. Lovely staff (apart for one grumpy one who barks occaisionaly), lovely food (except for vinegar flavoured eggs), great secret hidey-spot vibe. Coffee is decent. No table service is a bit of a pain as one must interrupt one's convo to order another coffee to continue one's convo. Overall however, despite imperfections, a delicious Melbourne experience.

Disappointed. I used to go to the Lawson Grove shop when I was a kid. Was run by an older lady who kept half a dozen loaves of bread, some milk, ciggies and a couple of cans or baked beans. It felt like a basement, dark and damp.<br/><br/>I have been going to the new Café since before the boys took over from the previous owner (details a bit foggy in my mind here).<br/><br/>It has been a fantastic few years of friendly chats in a quiet locale with a local feel but alas, I fear it has turned... jumped the shark (to mix a metaphor).<br/><br/>On the weekend my breakfast companion asked for a simple request about her eggs, received a blunt and slightly rude, "no".<br/><br/>It was a grumpy reproach that made us both take another look around us; Huge turnover of diners, many larger groups noisily chatting and the food standard has dropped of late. Another dear friend has said that she'll not be going again, "the food lately is soaked in butter and has been been giving me a funny tummy" says she.<br/><br/>I'm disappointed but can understand if they are trying to become more commercially successful. However it is off my list of cosy hidden breakfast haunts with friendly service, great food and coffee.<br/><br/>The search begins again.

In my top 5 of cafes. Simple and totally delish food made from quality produce. Lemon curd tart makes an appearance from time to time, an when it does, be sure to eat it slowly with closed eyes. Just like heaven. Am reluctant to share my love of this place for fear of missing out on a table when I go for my weekend latte!!

When you go to any retail shop, or accountants, or any business which has a sign on the window 'No Hawkers!', you immediately get a feeling that the business you are about to enter are fed up, grumpy, or whatever. For some reason it gives you a feeling instantly. It's not a good one, no matter how warranted. Some types of business depend on the feeling, the welcome you feel when you enter.<br/><br/>A cafe is a place to be, live your life out of home. Sure, the quality of the coffee, food, the ambience, design, seats, music has something to do with it. But basically it is all about the way you feel when you are there, and it's the desire to replicate that feeling that takes you back. You can take Vue du Monde's food home, but it wouldn't be the same.<br/><br/>Lawson is a bit like this. There's signage everywhere telling you how great they are and how they will not accept any variations, how you have to order at the counter, even though the staff have to run food, clear plates, in a small space, but can't actually service you in the mean time. <br/><br/>Sometimes you can accept this first impression of arrogance, if there is a queue around the block.<br/><br/>Firstly let me say that I have now been there four times.<br/><br/>Likes:<br/><br/>The location, and space is kind of interesting and exciting. It's like being somewhere else, unique and in another country perhaps, love the semi underground feel.<br/><br/>I like the take home meals, love the idea of Lasagne ends in a genfac to take home, all the best bits, like the corners of a Sara Lee apricot danish.<br/><br/>Dislikes:<br/><br/>Pricing: It's a bit all over the place. The more expensive coffee, the worse it seems to be. Tea is 4.50, T2 and the all too common too weak. You sit on it till it goes cold and bitter, all for 50 percent more than what you could accept.<br/><br/>I am sick of sloppy pre mixed scrambled eggs.<br/><br/>The menu is strange. Very limited. There are three toasted sangas but they're all basically a variation on ham, cheese, tomato.<br/><br/>The second to last time I was there I had scrambled eggs, too scared to ask them to cook them, with a side of sausage (one, great), bout ten bucks plus 3 bucks for one snag, and a cup of tea, cause the coffee is bad.<br/><br/>I was hungry and cashed up, loved the snags, so I ordered a couple more.<br/><br/>The washup? Scrambled eggs, 3 sausages, a cup of tea I didn't drink. 26 dollars. I had to go to the counter every time, get my own water, which had run out. The toilet was out of order, and no alternative offered but to come back in 5 hours.<br/><br/>The last time for lunch: A thai chicken salad, which was basically a vietnamese chicken salad; chinese cabbage, carrot, a million bean shoots and some chicken, with fish sauce, lime sauce. It looked like $19.50 on the coloured chalk on the board but was only $14.50. Should have been $8,00 <br/><br/>There was a sign heralding the return of a kitchen guru.<br/><br/>The self promotion is getting a bit monotonous. Back it up with at least something.<br/><br/>Let's start with table service, maybe.<br/><br/>The location makes it hard, something special would make it easier.<br/><br/>Not great, and signage and all, seems like they are a bit out of touch with what's going on.

"The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of low cost is forgotten" This cafe has an overinflated oppinion if itself. Overpriced beverages, bad coffee, aloof staff, average food quality and very slow service. Not an unpleasant experience but would not go back. Their quote, which is written on every menu and chalkboard, creates an arrogant disposition and only serves to dissapoint.