I’ve made no secret of my love for Chez Dré, right around the corner from the South Melbourne markets. On a weekday, it has a relaxed peaceful feeling (perfect for studying, working or escaping work!). And on a weekend it has a lively infectious vibe full of laughter, talking AND people enjoying themselves. It is certainly my favourite in Melbourne, made easier by its proximity to both home and work for me.

Brioche French Toast with spiced apples, pain d’épices crumb, blueberry gel, caramelised pecans and vanilla mascarpone.

Pretty as a picture and beautiful complimenting flavours. This dish is not overly sweet like some French toasts and the crunch of the walnuts are divine.

 

Truffled eggs with prosciutto, pecorino, coddled eggs, white truffle oil and toast sourdough.

If the brioche French Toast is Ying, then this dish is Yang. Not a hint of sweetness or sugar, this dish packs a sharp tangy punch from the combination of meat, cheese and truffle oil. The coddled eggs were smooth, soft and delicate.

Pistachio tapioca with passionfruit curd, rhubarb, chia seeds + pistachios.

This was a weekly special earlier in November, so you may find it’s not on the menu when you visit – but if it is I definitely recommend trying it! I absolutely love tapioca / sago dishes and this was no exception. The passionfruit curd was beautifully tangy/creamy and pistachios always remind me of Christmas. Delish!

 

Lemon-hazelnut tart with lemon mousse, pâte de praline, lemon crème, hazelnut dacquoise.

If you have not yet experienced the patisserie cabinet at Chez Dré you are seriously missing out. This indulgent lemon-hazelnut tart is just one of 13 amazingly constructed sweets you have to choose from (I’m talking Banofee St. Honoré, Caramel Éclair, Chocolate Tart). And then there are 12 flavours of Macarons too. Seriously sinful, but seriously worth it!

Scrambled eggs + bacon.

Not only do they do fancy well, they also do a simple satisfying Aussie brunch well! A seriously huge serving size (I couldn’t finish this), delicious bacon and some seriously good scrambling skills!

The coffee is always consistent, a locally roasted house ‘symmetry blend’ by The Maling Room in Canterbury. I love the fair trade and ethically sourced consciousness too.

There is certainly no way I can hide my love for this café, and while I sound super soppy and overly optimistic, it truly is a special space. Staff are always friendly, even on a busy weekend when they are full to overflowing and juggling a million things. Love love love!

Inlovewithbrunch verdict: Hands down, my fave in Melbourne!

 www.chezdre.com.au

Chez Dré, Rear of 285-287 Coventry Road, South Melbourne, +61 3 9890 2688

Article by Rosslyn Cooper

A foodie from Melbourne Australia with a penchant for brunching! Usually involves dragging said-foodie’s husband along too as taste-tester/guinea pig!

@inlovewithbrunch

 

 

For more delicious cafe reviews head over to See + Local 

Head down to Chez Dre and let us know what you think! Leave your comments below…