Dutchess Of Spotswood

There's nothing more pleasing than finding a hidden gem of a cafe with not just great coffee but scrumptious food and delightful service.

I really enjoyed the coffee and am pleased to be unable to fault the flat white, piccolo late and long black I had. My two friends were unable to fault theirs either.

I had 'Simple Pleasures' for breakfast. Beautifully presented, perfectly cooked and great composition of flavours and textures.

Service was prompt, warm and attentive. Sitting in the courtyard out the back in the sunshine and watching a coffeesnob sparrow perch on a glass and steal a beak...

Coffee great. Food nice with a few different choices on the menu. Only downside was my eggs were overdone, although that may (or may not) have been because I was on the phone when my order arrived.

I've been to the Duchess a few times now, and every time I do I feel happy the moment I walk in the door. The decor & music recall a simpler time, and the staff are always friendly and engaging.

The coffee is consistently really really good - you won't get a full-on 3rd-wave experience, but I've yet to have a cup that was anything less than great.

Similarly, their food is amazing - everything I've tried has been delicious and bursting with flavour.

Do yourself a favour, cross the West Gate and give yourself a treat!

Had lunch with the Dutchess and her Roaster - what a great way to spend an hour (a few months ago). Such passion, Auction Rooms Brew made to perfection on the La Marzocco and lunch was killer.