Emil's Cafe effortlessly blends nostalgia with modern charm. This family-run establishment offers more than just a place to eat; it provides a warm, inviting space where history, community, and exceptional cuisine come together to create a truly memorable dining experience. What makes it extra special is the covered and heated dog-friendly courtyard. Our overall experience is why we believe this is not just one of the best cafes in Pascoe Vale but all of Melbourne.
From the moment you step into Emil's Cafe, you're greeted with an atmosphere that feels familiar and comforting. The café's roots as an old milk bar and childhood home are evident in its charming décor and the delightful selection of lollies available for purchase, harking back to a simpler time. This nod to the past is more than just a design choice; it's a testament to the owners' deep connection to the space and their community.
Whether you're looking for a spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, a quick lunch, or a cosy place to catch up with friends over coffee, Emil's Cafe is the perfect destination. The versatile menu, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service make it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Menu at Emil's Cafe
Emil's Cafe boasts a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Delicious Melbourne Brunch Dishes
Breakfast lovers rejoice at Emil's Cafe's all-day menu! Start your day with a delightful açai bowl or savour the classic big breakfast. Prefer a lighter option? Try the smashed avo on toast with feta and cherry tomatoes.
A standout dish is the Turkish eggs with sujuk and lime yoghurt. This dish perfectly balances rich and slightly spicy sujuk sausage and burnt butter, which pairs beautifully with the fresh, creamy lime yoghurt topped with dill. The dish is completed with Simit, a Turkish sesame bagel, perfect for soaking up every delicious bite.
Another unique offering is the hummus shakshuka, which stands out from Melbourne's more commonly found versions. The creamy hummus balances the acidity of the tomatoes, and the addition of spinach pesto and the crunch of pine nuts make for a flavourful, hearty dish that doesn't leave you feeling heavy.
The lunch menu at Emil's Cafe offers an impressive variety of comforting and adventurous dishes. Must-try items include lamb kofta tacos or juicy, flavorful burgers served with fries. The super salad is an excellent choice for something light yet satisfying.
Make sure to save some room for dessert, especially the knafeh. This Middle Eastern sweet treat feels like it was made by a Lebanese aunt. Unlike the more common cheese-based version, Emil's knafeh has a creamy custard texture and is topped with pistachios, Persian fairy floss, vanilla ice cream, and rose syrup. The combination of textures and flavours, from the crunchy nuts to the delicate floral notes of the rose syrup, creates an exciting and comforting dessert without being overly sweet.
Kid-Friendly Options
Families are a central part of the Emil's Cafe experience, and the menu reflects this with several kid-friendly options. Little ones will love the 100s and 1000s pancakes, a colourful and fun breakfast treat. The variety of milkshakes available in different flavours will also widen their eyes. The café's commitment to making every guest feel welcome extends to ensuring that even the youngest diners have an enjoyable experience.
Drinks
Whether you're after a caffeine fix, a refreshing juice, or something stronger, Emil's Cafe has you covered.
Emil's Cafe serves Code Black coffee, featuring all your favourite Melbourne varieties, such as cappuccino, latte, and cold brew. The coffee is well-crafted, though it would be great to see Turkish or Arabic-style coffee on the menu to complement the café's flavours.
However, any pickiness is quickly overshadowed by the fact that Emil's Cafe is fully licensed. You can indulge in a cheeky Bloody Mary or a classic Americano cocktail. In addition to the coffee and boozy brunch options, there's a fantastic selection of teas, freshly made juices, and smoothies.
Melbourne Cafe Vibe
One of Emil's Cafe's standout features is its exceptional service. The staff goes above and beyond to make every guest feel like part of the family, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you'll be greeted with a smile. They treat everyone with genuine warmth and hospitality.
Being a top Melbourne dog-friendly cafe, you have options for where to sit. The dog-friendly courtyard offers covered and heated outdoor areas that extend the cozy interior charm. The outdoor seating outside the cafe fosters a sense of community when the sun is shining.
You can enjoy your meal without your furry friend staring at you the whole time, as the cafe provides a selection of dog treats to keep them busy.
Visting Emil's Cafe in Pascoe Vale South
Open seven days a week, Emil's Cafe is more than just a place to eat; it's a popular community hub. Finding a spot on weekdays should be easy, but on weekends and public holidays, the café gets quite busy between 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. It's best to plan ahead and expect some short wait times.
If you are visiting with your dog, you can meet the staff at the front. They can let you into the covered courtyard via the side gate. Alternatively, you can choose to sit out front.
Street parking is available around the café. Bus 512 stops right out front, but check the rules for travelling with dogs on public transport.
