Reviews - Operator 25
Reviews summary
This Melbourne restaurant has received numerous positive reviews, but our experience didn't quite live up to the hype. While the service started off promising, with a short wait for a table and a helpful front of house server, things quickly took a turn for the worse. We waited 45 minutes for our food, only to find that both the lamb and fish dishes were underwhelming and questionable in freshness. After experiencing stomach pains later in the day, we were left disappointed. In contrast, other diners have raved about the Ube waffles, corn fritters, and various egg dishes on the menu. The food has been described as beautiful, delicious, and excellent. While the trendy vibe of the restaurant may not be for everyone, the overall dining experience has left a mixed impression.
Was Anonym at Operator 25 a mag?
Beautiful dishes, friendly staff and great mood in general! Just one of my top 5 brunching places in Melbourne, I have come back a few times since 2018 I really love how to change their menu every year and I was excited to try the dishes they currently offer. If you weren't here and you live in Melbourne, you're really missing good things! Book now better a table and get here ASAP View all feedback.
What Minh D dislikes about Operator 25:
Sad to see how this place didn’t maintain the quality and reputation it used to have. Service wasn’t too bad though waiting staff all seem like they were dreading the day. Food was so mid. The granola came tasted stale, and the pear slices were harder than biting into an apple. The Benedict was less than impressive—beef which was part of the dish tasted like jerky soaked in sauce… Coffee saved the day and was probabl... View all feedback.
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Reviews from various users
Last update : 27.07.2025
Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5
We went to the city to try this Asian fusion brunch place that is popular in town They have new menu every few months which could makes you wanna revisit again Thai Pork Omelette (AUD 29). Spicy Mala Baked Eggs (AUD 27.5). Ube Matcha (AUD 10). Strawberry Matcha (AUD 10) The mains were bursting with bold, diverse flavours that really hit the spot, especially the added kick of spice that made each bite even more satisfying As for the drinks, both were deliciously smooth, the rich ube and strawberry paired perfectly with the earthy matcha base Highly recommend this place if you’re after great vibes and flavourful food. Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Meal type: Brunch Price per person: $20–40
Sad to see how this place didn’t maintain the quality and reputation it used to have. Service wasn’t too bad though waiting staff all seem like they were dreading the day. Food was so mid. The granola came tasted stale, and the pear slices were harder than biting into an apple. The Benedict was less than impressive—beef which was part of the dish tasted like jerky soaked in sauce… Coffee saved the day and was probably the only good item left from this place. Food: 3 Service: 4 Atmosphere: 3 Meal type: Brunch Price per person: $20–40 Parking space: Difficult to find parking Parking options: Parking is unavailable
Last update : 02.02.2024
We happen to visit this cafe only by chance, we were that impressed we went there everyday for breakfast. Coffee and food was on point every time we dined there. All the staff were very friendly and welcoming...best pulled pork benedict ever. Thankyou guys !!
Perfect coffee. Incredible (vegan) food. Service was also top notch. Really can't recommend highly enough.
There was a bit of a line up as it was a public holiday, however staff were very accommodating. We had the pulled pork benedict and it was absolutely delicious. The coffee is perfect. We will definitely be back!
Massive serves! Strongman food! Great little set up everything was delicious! : I had the Congee and it was very satisfying! Highly recommend for breakfast!
Came to Melbourne for a little holiday. This was first stop and the only place I returned to multiple times. Food and coffee was some of the best and very consistent. Mason was probably the best waiter I have ever had in any cafe. Thankyou operator
Last update : 31.07.2023
Very popular place for brunch in Melbourne. Waited for 40min but food was delicious so worth the wait. Staff is friendly. Queen Victoria Market is just nearby so can go there to kill time while waiting for table.
**** beautiful breakfast! I had the black rice porridge which I'd never had before it was soooo good I could have eaten 2 bowls! My husband had the eggs bene said it was really delish too. Coffee was great too.
Get the Ube waffles to share or just for yourself. Tastes like a pretty standard waffle, but the fruits and sauce made this just heaven!! Also had the corn fritters and my husband had the soft shell crab omelette. Recommend going here for a great breakfast or lunch!
We called by for lunch and were a little daunted by the crowds inside, so we asked for a table on the street. We had an umbrella to give us some shelter. The building is historic and housed the first telephone exchange in Melbourne, staffed with women operators. The food was pricey, but looked interesting. We chose a Teriyaki Mushroom dish (on toast) and the thoughtfully brought us extra cutlery and a plate with the water bottle. they even brought us additional water when we finished the first carafe. The food was excellent with a rich sauce.
This cafe was very busy. Waited a short while for a seat but SO worth the wait. Choice of coffees. Ours were all great. Varied menu. Despite the fact that it was so busy the service was excellent,
Last update : 01.05.2023
The food is consistently delicious, and the atmosphere is perfect for conversation. The staff is friendly and helpful, making the dining experience even better!
Everything was excellent! The coffee and chili open omelet were absolutely delicious. I will definitely return next time I'm in town.
Absolutely love this place. Was there for brunch and catch up with friends. The staff are very friendly, the food and drinks are great. I had matcha latte and pulled pork, my friends had Mala duck udon and Egg on toast with avocado. They are all amazing. Will come back again with no doubt. We enjoyed.
Beautiful dishes, friendly staff and great mood in general! Just one of my top 5 brunching places in Melbourne, I have come back a few times since 2018 I really love how to change their menu every year and I was excited to try the dishes they currently offer. If you weren't here and you live in Melbourne, you're really missing good things! Book now better a table and get here ASAP
Super stylish Café (love the little details that this was a place for an operator), perfect for brunch/meetings or heaps options for a self treat. Loving this place for my perfect “oat-latte”. The bubble waffle is highly recommended!
