amystown

I don’t usually dine by myself, but on this particular morning I did. Lolo and Wren had just opened a few weeks earlier in Brunswick West and with it only being a short drive from my house, I thought, why not?

One of the first things I noticed here was the delightful service. Karen, co-owner and a member of the wait staff was helping people on the outside tables as I walked past and I couldn’t help but smile. They didn’t miss a beat during my entire visit and Karen was just as lovely as she first seemed.

I took a seat, ordered my soy cappuccino and sat back to take in the surroundings. I would just like to note that my coffee came with a chocolate covered coffee bean on the saucer and soy drawn into the top – cute. The coffee itself was beautiful, 5 Senses coffee – low acidity, full flavour and body – made on their Synesso machine.

The food menu isn’t huge, but it doesn’t need to be. Taking inspiration from Chile in particular, it ventures outside the typical café fare. Rumours have informed me that the crispy fried croque monsieur and the chorizo sliders are worth the trip alone. You’ll also find things like house made baked beans given a Spanish twist, herbed crepes and your more familiar bircher muesli. The Banoffee porridge is calling my name for next time, with caramalised banana, stewed dates, dulce de luche and toasted coconut crumble.

On this particular morning I was feeling the savoury options and ordered the Avocado and pebre salsa bruschetta. With its Chilean influence it was packed full of coriander and other herbs making it fresh and a great summer option.

The interior of Lolo and Wren took its inspiration from recycled materials when Franco (chef and co owner) along with his wife Karen saw someone make their bed out of old palettes. From there they were hands on every step of the way, down to Franco helping his friend and cabinetmaker paint the whole venue.

I am almost positive this will be a hit with the locals – it was already packed – but I also think this one will be a winner among the travelers as well.