Coccolicco

I've got a soft spot for Perth's vibrant coffee scene, and one place that I frequent is Coccolicco in Fremantle. Tucked away on High Street, this spot has carved out a special nook where coffee meets comfort. You know how some places just click with you? Yeah, Coccolicco does that. The vibe here is relaxed, and they've mastered that balance between serene and lively.

First off, the coffee is top-tier. You won't find yourself cringing at burnt beans or scalding hot brews here. Consistency is key, and they nail it every time. For once, I don't have to explain preferred milk levels – they just get it. It's that kind of unspoken understanding between regulars and the baristas, which is rare and precious. Plus, they've got a solid variety on the menu. Caramel latte for a sweet kick? Sure. Long black for purists? Absolutely. They've even got a few experimental blends if you're feeling adventurous.

Now, the hours might be a bit unusual for newcomers. They open bright and early at 6:30 am, which is a bonus for morning folks. They've decided to take the weekends off, though. It's a bummer to miss out on my brunch ritual here on Saturdays and Sundays, but it makes me look forward to the weekday visits even more.

The cafe hosts a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, something I appreciate whenever I spot it. It's these small nods to inclusivity that speak volumes. There's plenty of space outside, too. Whether you're with friends or have your dog along for the run, there's room. While inside, it's all about cozy corners. You can choose to watch the passing crowd or lose yourself in some book that you kinda' meant to finish.

Fremantle itself is a cool blend of history and culture. Once you've had your fill at Coccolicco, there's plenty more to explore. Just a stroll away, you'll stumble upon street performers, artisans, and more coffee shops. The Fremantle Markets is a must-visit. They have everything from local arts to fresh produce. It's chaotic in a vibrant way and perfect if you're into discovering little keepsakes. If you're looking for more cultural hits, I recommend walking over to the Fremantle Prison. Engaging tours dig into history in a manner that stirs both awe and intrigue.

But back to Coccolicco – the folks here don't just sling coffee. They've got a good brunch selection that's unpretentious and straight to the point. I'm not saying they're reinventing the wheel, but the avo toast? They do it so well you'll reconsider all the others you've had.

Staff here keep things laid-back yet professional. It's like hanging out with familiar faces that've got the coffee-house magic down pat. If you're ever stumped about what to order, they'll jump in with suggestions that surprisingly fit your taste. I've had some of my best coffee chats here, where they don't shy away from sharing recommendations about Fremantle's other hidden gems.

Speaking of exploring, the Round House isn't too far away. Sitting on top of a hill, it's older than some countries and offers views that quell all stress. Wander a bit more and you'll reach Bathers Beach, a slice of sandy heaven perfect for unwinding. The proximity to these spots makes Coccolicco a great starting point for any Fremantle day-out.

For the sunny minded, Pet-friendly policies make visits a tad more cheerful. Bringing man's best friend along is always a plus, and trust me, they love the attention they get here. Coccolicco gets it; coffee tastes better when you've got your dog beside you. It adds to the warm neighborhood vibe, which they pull off so genuinely.

If there's one hitch, it's the weekends being closed, which I wish wasn't the case. But that's perhaps part of their charm. They keep things running smoothly and focus on quality over quantity. It's a simple outlook that works well in a world where cafes can often bite off more than they can chew.

Each visit to Coccolicco feels like catching up with an old friend. There's familiarity, yet always something new to discover. So when you find yourself in Fremantle with a craving for a good brew and some casual charm, you know where to head. Just check the time and day before you do!