Major Mitchell

As visitors pass through the cast-iron gates marking the entrance of Major Mitchell and step into the café, they are greeted with a space celebrating pink, bright hues.

The venue in Melbourne’s southeast is the brainchild of Katie Devic who has 16 years’ experience of setting up cafés internationally, including Dubai and Singapore as well as across Melbourne.

“I wanted to bring something new to the area and deliver a point of difference for our food to create a welcoming neighbourhood charm,” she says.

The café is nestled in a heritage building that served as the Glen Huntly post office from the 1930s through to the 1990s. The front of the building is original, and its big open grass area with umbrellas serves as a family friendly nook.

“The outside area is bright and playful. There’s a cubby house – a replica of our café building – in the corner for kids to play,” says Katie.

But when visitors walk inside, there’s an entirely different feel. Tall ceilings and bright hues keep the space fresh, inviting, and airy.

Katie opened the café in the midst of the pandemic but was optimistic about its potential despite the rolling lockdowns.

“My ambition was to create an open space with a big and colourful  garden area, beautiful roses, and fruit trees. I wanted to create something spacious and vibrant where families can bring their kids while other can enjoy a long boozy brunch. It’s great seeing people have lunch or coffee under our lemon and olive trees,” she says.

As customers bask in the pink hues of the venue, they can sip The Bean Cartel’s La Patrona blend, described as aromatically complex with peach and maple syrup, and a smooth nougat aftertaste.

“It makes you want to have that second cup. It’s like a big, warm hug with chocolate notes and a smooth flavour.”

Although Major Mitchell customers are huge fans of the coffee, Katie says she chose The Bean Cartel for its family-like feel.

“They’re always just a text message away and the coffee is consistent. There have been times when I’ve needed help because someone’s called in sick and I’ve texted them to see if someone was available to help for an hour. And sure enough, they were there behind the coffee machine in no time,” she says.

While Major Mitchell’s bright pink door is a beacon for coffee hunters, the real fun is in the kitchen. Katie says she strives to keep the menu unique, drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern, Asian, and European cuisines.

For example, one of the café’s signature dishes celebrates mushrooms three ways: featuring sautéed mushrooms with a mushroom ketchup served on a truffle potato rosti.

The off-beat menu is complemented by a big display of house-made cakes.

“Our carrot cake is divine with a long black, as well as our yogurt biscuits that the chefs make,” she says. “Our daily array of desserts and pastries is just phenomenal.”

Major Mitchell

122 Grange Road,

Carnegie, Victoria, 3163

Open Monday to Friday 7.30am to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am to 3pm