John Gorilla Brunswick - Melbourne

John Gorilla is a hidden gem found in Brunswick. A lot of little cafes like this don't produce the best food but this cafe is brilliant. What it lacks in size it makes up for in quality. The food is amazing. The staff are very friendly and always greet you with a warm smile. Some cons to it is the coffee is unreliable and it is a bit expensive. I highly recommend this cafe.

We visited this restaurant in the back of Brunswick for a mid-week autumn lunch and we were very impressed. The staff was attentive and made us feel welcome and well taken care of. The menus were promptly provided and the coffee was excellent. The food was beautifully presented and had delicious, complex flavors. I ordered the Cuban sandwich, which was absolutely amazing. Although this restaurant may be a bit off the beaten path, it is a hidden gem that should not be missed.

I was greeted by a friendly waitress and chose a comfortable seat in the second room, near the window where I could people watch. I enjoyed a strong and velvety coffee before ordering the house made granola with vanilla labne, poached pears, and fresh strawberries (minus the buttermilk, replaced with almond milk for dietary reasons). The dish was delicious, with creamy vanilla labne, tender poached pears, and chunky, toasted granola with a bittersweet taste from honey and a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. John Gorilla has quickly become one of my favorite cafes in the area because of its welcoming atmosphere, excellent coffee, and impeccable food. The relaxed vibe is perfect for locals coming in for their daily meal, and I look forward to returning in warmer weather to enjoy the courtyard out back.

I love this little neighbourhood cafe. Was my local for a long time. Ventured back today because I knew it was dog friendly. The breakfast was really good, top ticket items run $18-$22 but it was really well executed , both food and coffee. I'm a fan.

This cafe is tucked away at the quieter end of Brunswick west and not easily accessible by public transport. It's easy to dismiss this cafe from outside looking in but is definitely a different feel the minute you walk in. I was curious to check this cafe out after being featured in the melbourne spring 2017 official visitor guide. According to the guide, the avocado piquillo (avo on sourdough with poached eggs and piquillo peppers) comes highly recommended by locals in the know. So that's the dish I ordered with almond latte and one of the specials of the day- porchini mushrooms soup with cheese toast. The coffee was really good and I had to ask which almond milk the barista use. The avo piquillo was fresh and tasty but I wouldn't travel far for it. On the other hand, the soup was delish!! Loved the interior decors with interesting ornaments on the table, wall and shelves. Staff are friendly too. Would recommend this cafe if you're around the area, plenty of off street parking in the residential area and you don't have to worry about long wait for this hidden gem.