Number 9 Dream

number9dream cafe is the perfect place for great coffee, good food and fabulous music. There's also a wide collection of reading matter, board games and some interesting art on the walls.

There are three grinders: one for the smooth, rich and consistent house blend, Calima, from the Colombian Farmers Federation; one for a weekly 'Special Bean' that showcases the best bean discoveries from Melbourne and afar; and the third for the locally roasted Southern Addictions decaf. Their espresso is always rich and consistent, and to present their lattes or flat whites they add a bit of impressive art.

They have a huge menu - from the Big Breakfast (think eggs, with all the extras) served on sourdough, thick homemade toasted fruit bread, brilliant beef and vegie burgers, bagels, toasted sandwiches and foccacias, and the ultimate dessert - the Killer Brownie. They also boast a wide range of homemade biscuits and cakes.

The space is used well, with couches to relax on, a bar running along the window to watch the passersby and tables for meeting friends or for spreading out your copy of The Age. The music is something that is obviously of high importance - there's always something good coming through the speakers. The cafe is also fully licenced, so wine and a range of usual favourites and select, local boutique beers are also on offer.

THE place to stop on the way to the Prom. Best coffee I've had in Gippsland.