Lakeside Hub

I visit a lot of coffee shops in Perth, so, of course, I found myself at Lakeside Hub in Joondalup. Located within the West Coast Institute Joondalup Campus, it's got easy access on Kendrew Crescent. Parking? There's a spot right around the back, and it's wheelchair-friendly. This place is perfect for a morning catch-up or a solo coffee break during your weekday hustle. Don't plan on swinging by over the weekend, though; they're closed Saturday and Sunday, 8 am to 2 pm during the week only.

What surprised me was how chill it felt despite being smack-dab in the middle of a busy campus. Maybe it's the natural light streaming in or the quiet buzz of conversation from students and locals. The seating's spaced out nicely, with options both indoors and outside. Bonus for folks with furry friends—they allow dogs, so you and your pupper can enjoy the morning sun together.

The coffee's solid, which I guess should be a given, but it's always a relief. Nothing too fancy, but they know their stuff. If you're like me and enjoy a simple flat white or a cappuccino, you'll be happy. When your tummy's rumbling, they've got a neat selection of bites, from pastries to wraps to classic toasties. Even though they do takeaway and delivery, I think the vibe's worth hanging around for, especially if you grab a seat by the window to people watch.

Around the area, Joondalup itself is bustling but homely. Just a short walk away, there's the Joondalup Shopping Centre, a lifesaver if you need to run errands or crave a retail fix post-coffee. You can't miss the Central Park nearby too. It's the kind of place where you could easily spend an hour wandering, taking in the trees, and enjoying a moment of peace in the midst of suburban life. Also, just near the park, there's HBF Arena, a spot for sports and events, which adds to the community vibe here.

The Lakeside Hub's got a rating of 4.3 stars from seven reviews. Not bad at all. From what I've gathered, most folks here appreciate the easy-going nature and straightforward menu, though we all might wish for a few more hours to pop by.

Now for the nitty-gritty: service. They're friendly and efficient, and you won't wait long for your order, which is pretty essential if you've only got a short break between classes or work. Everyone behind the counter seems genuinely interested in keeping things upbeat, which adds a nice touch.

If you've got a sweet tooth, you won't be disappointed. Their muffins and slices come highly recommended. Chocolate lovers might find themselves coming back just for a taste! And all this deliciousness is complemented by their commitment to accessibility. If you or someone with you uses a wheelchair, rest assured; the whole place, from parking to seating, accommodates well.

The crowd varies from college students absorbed in laptops to local retirees meeting for their weekly catch-up. It's a local haunt with enough turnover to keep the energy lively but not chaotic. If you're a regular at Perth coffee shops, you'll know it can be a fine line to tread.

And just a heads up—you might want to bring your own reusable cup if you're popping in for takeaway. It's a little nod to sustainability, and you might even get a small discount. That said, with the simplicity and charm of this spot, it feels like you're visiting a friend's place who just happens to make some wickedly good coffee.

So, if you find yourself in Joondalup during the week, in need of a breather or a stop in your day, Lakeside Hub is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're after a quick caffeine fix or a lingering chat with a mate, it stands out not for any fancy gimmicks, but for just sticking to what a good coffee shop should keep front and center—good coffee, good people, and a spot to unwind.