The Old Boy Cafe

I've become quite the fan of The Old Boy Cafe in Applecross. Nestled along Canning Highway, this spot has a cozy vibe that's hard to miss. It may not be flashy, but it has style and warmth. With an average rating of 4.3 from over 120 reviews, locals seem to agree there's something special here.

The cafe opens early, around 7:30 am, which is perfect for grabbing a morning brew before work. It stays open until 1:30 pm during the week, though it's closed on Sundays. Saturdays have shorter hours, closing at noon, making it more of a weekday haunt for the working crowd or school drop-off parents. Don't expect late afternoon coffees, but enjoy those breakfast hours while you can.

Walking in, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee welcomes you. They have a decent range of usual suspects. If you take your coffee iced hot, or flat, they'll sort you out. The baristas know their stuff, and the milk is steamed just right. They offer a range of plant-based milks too, which is a win for my almond-loving heart. And, there's something satisfying about seeing familiar faces behind the counter, adding a personal touch to each visit.

The cafe has a laid-back atmosphere, yet it's buzzing with the chatter of happy folks catching up. Families with strollers, couples, and a few solo patrons tapping away on laptops. They've got those communal tables if you're keen to meet someone new, or small, cozy spots if you're in the need of "me-time."

Seating spills outside, which is great for those who love enjoying Perth's sunny days. In Australia, enjoying the sun is practically a sport. Their outdoor section is dog-friendly, so bring along your pup. Nothing beats sipping a cappuccino with your furry mate at your feet. The cafe scoring high on disability access is comforting. It's wheelchair-friendly, right from the car park to the tables.

For those grabbing a bite, The Old Boy offers more than just coffee. They have breakfast and lunch options, although the menu isn't endless. I'd say it's a case of quality over quantity. The avo toast is simple, yet done just right. It's the perfect combo of smash and spice. Prices are fair, which matters when buying coffee every other day. Takeaway is an option too. If you're rushing to work, it's a sweet setup.

One thing to note, they don't have a website, so updates might not hit you in the face when things change. A phone call could sort out specifics as they share on social media. I reckon a little mystery does wonders anyway.

Exploring Applecross is a delightful experience too, if you've got some time to wander around. Right behind the cafe are streets lined with huge trees. A chill walk there stands as a lovely way to spend an afternoon. On weekends, there's plenty of life with the nearby parks filled with kids playing and community vibes.

Riverside spots are just a few minutes away. The breeze from the Swan River does offer a great respite. Sometimes, I grab my coffee, stroll along the river's edge, and soak in the view. If you're lucky, majestic black swans make an appearance.

The Old Boy Cafe doesn't boast a loud presence, yet that keeps it local and lovely. Living up to that hidden gem status, it's a place where you can find your own little slice of peace, be it on a busy weekday or a relaxed Saturday morning. Definitely worth a visit if you're in Applecross and in need of that solid caffeine hit and some comfort food. There's a charm in the simple things, and this cafe seems to have found it.