Cafe Qua (St.Kilda) 2010

There are at least a dozen establishments similar to Café Qua within a kilometer or two along this increasingly vital Balaclava shopping strip. Many have come and gone over the last 10 years but, for good reason, Café Qua is thriving. It’s inconspicuous, at 289 Carlyle Street, marking the far end of the strip, with a few aging tables under umbrellas on the footpath. Inside it is rather dark with a dozen or so small 5 ply topped bare tables. Daily newspapers are available for customers. A small hand written sign informs that it is a “cash only” business. One wonders why.
It’s a family business. Grandparents and grandchildren are often there, chatting and gossiping. They are inclusive and friendly. A pleasant atmosphere is also induced by attractive young serving staff who smile a lot and seemed pleased to be looking after us. The breakfast menu, available from 8.00 to 4.00, from Tuesday to Sunday,priced from $7.5 to $15 is extensive including a variety of poached and scrambled eggs, muesli and vegetarian dishes. Lunch, similarly priced, includes chicken, fish, pasta dishes and a variety of salads. Products are sourced from local shops. Serves are large. We’ve tried many of their dishes and not been disappointed. Salads are fresh and crisp, carbonara and cream sauces for pastas are very good. For breakfast I recommend Eggs Qua,
two perfectly poached eggs with firm whites and just cooked slightly runny yolks on muffins, baby spinach and shaved ham, topped with smoked salmon and Hollandaise sauce. Definitely good for an inexpensive, tasty, hearty meal in a happy atmosphere.
Score 13/20