Mr. Burch, McKinnon

With Christmas and the New Year now past for another year, it's now back to the regular routine and back to posting about the great things Bayside Melbourne has to offer.  And for something new this year I have decided to award my most loved places with a 5 star rating.

Growing up, the strip of McKinnon road stretching from Jasper Rd to Wheatly Rd didn't have much to offer.  Many shops were vacant and run down, and really only hairdressing salons adorned the sleepy suburb stuck between Ormond and Bentleigh.  Really, it was only ever known for the yearly McKinnon festival which as a kid, from memory, was pretty good.

But over recent years McKinnon has taken off.  Several cafes have opened, there's a 70's retro shop, beauty therapy and a pizza place.  All to complement the already existing pharmacy, newsagent and bakery.  The nature strips have been planted with ornamental pears and in spring, when in full flower, these provide a really nice village feel.

The most recent addition to the cafe culture of McKinnon rd, and quite clearly the stand out in my opinion, is Mr.Burch.
Located at 129 McKinnon Rd, on the corner of Elm Grove (beach side of railway line), this tiny cafe turns out some seriously good coffee and food.

I first discovered Mr.Burch when one of the other cafes was closed.  And boy, I have not looked back.  What strikes me, and that which I love, is the care taken in the coffee making process.  This is not a churn em out cafe.  In fact, if they are busy one might have to wait 5 minutes, but that's ok.  I had long been a latte drinker but Mr.Burch has seen me change to the cappuccino.  Although in Italy they seem to not indulge in the chocolatey sprinkling on top, Mr.Burch's cappuccino is the closest to authentic that I have come across on this side of town. Each sip takes me back to the Cinque Terre, the chocolate dusting lingering in the cup till the very last sip.

This cafe can get pretty packed due to it's small nature and very strong following, but there are also 3 tables on the street offering dog friendly dining, and I do believe they take reservations.

Check out their website for opening hours and phone number
www.mrburch.com.au


Coffee rating *****
Food rating *****
Service and friendliness *****