Festa

I stop by a ton of coffee shops in Perth and the Fremantle area is one spot I can't miss. In downtown Fremantle, you'll find a little gem named Festa. This quaint cafe has quickly become one of my go-tos. They've got a vibe that's perfect if you're all about a laid back morning or if you need a quick caffeine fix before diving into the day.

Festa is nestled right on William Street and it sits among some of Freo's coolest spots. It's a stone's throw from the Fremantle Markets, so you can grab a brew and take a stroll. Close by, there's also the Fremantle Prison and the Shipwreck Galleries for history buffs, not to mention a bunch of boutique shops if you're up for a bit of browsing.

Festa opens early with coffee ready by 7 am from Monday to Friday. They extend their hours to 3 pm, a bit shorter over the weekend, closing up at 2 pm on Saturdays. It's a relief that they keep things chill and close on Sundays, allowing everyone, including staff, a well-deserved rest. The espresso machine hums constantly and the coffee aroma wakes you up before that first sip. They've got those popular custom blends that appeal to both the coffee connoisseur and the casual sipper.

When it comes to aroma and taste, Festa does it right. Their menu's straightforward but covers all coffee essentials. You know the usual lineup – lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites, with a few specialty items in the mix. The baristas sure know their craft and never skimp on quality. Even if you go off the beaten path and order a macchiato or ristretto, they'll nail it every time.

Here's something cool about Festa—they welcome four-legged friends. Dogs are part of the crew here, which is awesome if you want to bring your furry buddy while out on a sunshine stroll. On any given morning, you'll spot a dog or two lounging beside their owners. It's just one of those touches that make you feel at home.

While you sip your brew, there's a small selection of brunch bites to keep you fueled. It's the typical cafe line-up, but they serve tasty, fresh options that won't disappoint. There're breakfast rolls, sandwiches, and a few baked treats; they really come through on those lazy weekend mornings when cooking feels like a chore.

What's good too is that it's wheelchair accessible, which is important. You won't have to worry if you need that consideration. Whether you take a seat inside or out, you'll get a dose of Freo ambiance with the mixed sounds of street chatter and caffeine enthusiasm. It's not the biggest spot, so sometimes you might find it a bit snug. But that adds to its charm, in my opinion.

If you're living the busy life or just wanting to sip in the park, Festa also offers takeaway and delivery options. It's convenient when you don't have the time or just want to enjoy your coffee outside while soaking up Fremantle's coastal vibe. Ordering is simple, and the takeaway service is efficient, bundling that cafe goodness to go.

The folks at Festa make it a point to remember who you are. As a regular, I find it refreshing to be treated like more than just another face in the queue. They master that craft of making you feel like a local, even if you're not one. It's that personal touch that makes all the difference and keeps folks coming back.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room—pricing. The coffee and snacks won't break your bank, which is more than welcome in these times. They set a fair price for good quality. And let's be honest, when you find a spot that blends quality with fair pricing, it deserves a bit of loyalty.

So, when you're around Fremantle, put Festa on your list. It's more than just coffee; it's a little slice of Freo life served warm. Whether you're fueling your day or just taking a breather, this spot offers a bit of everything you want. You'll probably see me there, enjoying my coffee and the slow pace of a sunny Freo day.