OK, so one wouldn't naturally think of going to auction rooms for brunch, but this cafe really rocks. Having been here a few weeks ago for lunch, I was so taken with the place that I had to share my new found cafe hot spot with my partner this lovely sunny Sunday afternoon.
I love how this place is rather grungy in a such an uncontrived way. I love the bare red brick walls and the music posters that plaster some of it; the open central bar area; the high warehouse ceiling with old fashioned ceiling fans; the laid back vibe and the most friendly of service from types that look reminiscent of students from my old uni days. Love it!!
Being a gorgeous sunny Sunday afternoon today, this place was packed since all the other cool people in Melbourne had also decided to spend brunch at Auction Rooms. So much so in fact, that we had to put our name down on a waiting list. Estimated wait was twenty minutes, but in reality it was only about five.
We were given a great table at the back by the outside courtyard area and our order of flat whites taken right away.
A few minutes later, our flat whites came with the lovely swirly pattern. As somebody who knows nothing about coffee, I will say that I find Auction Rooms coffee has a very distinct, bold flavour.
From the food menu, I ordered the 'Coriander falafel and poached eggs on grilled flat bread with cumin & mint yoghurt, tabouli, dukkah and tahini dressing' ($16). The falafel was crispy on the outside and fell easily apart when cut into. The whole dish was a tasty combination, but I would have preferred a slightly smaller portion.
My partner ordered the pork knuckle sandwich only to be told that they had run out. What a shame - I really wanted to try it. So instead, he ordered the 'Opening bid - poached eggs on toast with field mushrooms, grilled bacon, wilted baby spinach & roasted roma tomatoes' ($16.50). The smoked bacon was grilled just right, the mushrooms had been cooked in a little delicious butter and the eggs were poached perfectly.
We were both absolutely stuffed at the end, but not enough to be able to have another cup of coffee.
With it's great vibe, cool interior, friendly service and all round fabulousness, I urge you to take the trip up to Auction Rooms in North Melbourne.
Auction Rooms
103-107 Errol Street, North Melbourne, VIC 3051Tel: +61 (0)3 9326 7749
Mon-Wed: 7:30am-5pm
Thu-Sat: 7:30am-10pm
Sun: 8am-4pm
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