This was probably one of the very few times I’ve been to Fitzroy for brekky (if not the only time) so had to make it worthwhile! I’ve heard so many incredible things about Industry Beans, so it was a no brainer to pop our name down on the massive waitlist and enjoy a cuppa in the warm sun while we waiting for our name to be called.
ATMOSPHERE & SERVICE
With more than a 40 minutes wait, I knew we were in for something amazing! The name says it all, part roast house, part cafe, and definitely one of the better ones this side of the town has to offer. Although it may look tiny from the outside, walking in, you will find sky high ceilings and a long narrow space packed with tables leading to the back roasting area.
The indoor converted warehouse boosts dark concrete floors, exposed ceilings and an overall very industrial style vibe. The front courtyard area (which I failed to get a photo of) offers a more relaxed atmosphere filled with greenery at every angle (photo via Industry Beans Website).
There is a mountain of beans stacked at the back of the cafe, all ready to be enjoyed either in house or to be purchased and enjoyed in the comfort of your own home.
Service was fantastic from start to finish. Although we had a lengthy wait to be seated, the kitchen coped well and food didn’t take forever. The waiter was extremely knowledgeable with both the food and coffee menus offering great recommendations.
FOOD
So, I mentioned above coffee menu, and that’s exactly what was presented. A full menu based on how you would like your coffee made! Choose from espresso, filtered or cold pressed coffee and then pick your blend. This is what us Melbournians are known for, our amazing coffee! I had no clue what I was looking at, so left the decision up to our waiter. All I said was something cold and delicious, and that’s exactly what I got!
With a menu changing seasonally, there were plenty of delicious options to choose from. By the time we were finally seated it was nearing lunch so we ended up ordered a bit of brekky and a bit of lunch. I went with the ‘Avocado Smash’ served with chevre, opal basil, micro mint, green tea salt and charred lemon and a side of spinach. Although it seemed simple, it was jam packed with flavour.
Next up was the ‘Coffee Rubbed Wagyu Burger’ with chilli jam, cheddar, pickled zucchini, all on a brioche bun and a side of polenta chips. Within a few minutes the burger disappeared, which meant it must have been delicious! The chips had a slight crunch on the outside and piping hot and soft on the inside.
Overall this was an amazing morning. The atmosphere was bustling, the food was amazing, and the coffee was some of the best we’ve found so far. This is a true definition of what us Melbourne breakfast snobs love!