vickip1

#22 in Wantirna South VIC

Reviews by vickip1

This review is for The Vegie Bar, Fitzroy VIC

verified email - 01 May 2010

We frequent the Vegie Bar on a very regular basis because it never fails us when we want a good, reliable, solid, wholesome meal.
There is much to choose from on the menu - and for us vegans, that is a REAL bonus! I think between our vegan family (three of us), we have tried pretty much everything vegan on the menu and have loved all the dishes - although I think the pizzas are a favourite and are totally delish! AND... it is a rare night that I don't order the vegan chocolate cake with soy ice cream - my god, it truly finishes off the meal and I don't need to eat at all the next day!
We have been there at all times - morning, noon, late afternoon and night and the place is always jumping with a great vibe and loads of people. So, the chances of sharing one of the large tables with others happens often - but that is the charm of the place and people always smile, say "hi" and shuffle over to make room - very European and is what makes this funky place special.
The staff are friendly and attentive and are happy to explain your menu options. Even on the busiest of nights, there is not a huge wait for your food - and credit must go to the kitchen and staff who keep the place going like a well oiled machine. You are served your food in excellent time and you never feel rushed to eat and leave despite the busyness of the place. To linger over coffee, cake and a book/magazine is welcomed.
We have eaten there so often now I have lost count and can honestly say we have never had a bad experience there.
We highly recommend it for an energetic bustling vibe and great veggie/vegan food!

This review is for Belgrave Manor Earthly Pleasures Cafe, Belgrave VIC

verified email - 01 May 2010

My husband and I are vegan and love coming across the many veggie friendly places to eat in Victoria (one of the main reasons why we moved from Perth). I must say we weren't disappointed when we first visited Earthly Pleasures!
Entering the serene gardens from the bustling street was like stepping into another time and place.

On a crisp Autumn afternoon, we walked past the gently trickling old fountain through the door into a gracious olde-world brick and timber interior. We were greeted and seated by friendly staff who were very accommodating to our vegan needs and I'm happy to say, there were plenty of options for us.
The food was well prepared, wholesome and just the right amount for two courses over lunch. I loved the locally made soy ice-cream and ordered an extra helping with our shared dessert, a delicious raspberry crumble.

We were served our first course soon after placing our orders and dessert arrived when we were ready for it, so the timing of meals was very good.
We lingered over coffee feeling pleasantly replete and took in the cosy ambiance of this beautiful old manor.

Whether it be for morning/afternoon tea, lunch or dinner, we recommend this gracious old home and gardens for a vegetarian/vegan sensory experience.
**For us, the service, the food and the atmosphere was excellent - we will consider this a regular haunt from now on!