Little Sparrow Cafe

I find myself returning to Little Sparrow Cafe at the Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre. Nestled in a bustling part of town, it offers a cozy spot to grab coffee. The place opens every day at 8 am, except on Sundays when it starts a bit later at 11 am. I appreciate the convenience of the hours since I'm an early riser.

The cafe has a decent 3.5-star average rating from about 53 reviews. It's easy to see why it's popular for both takeaway and dine-in options. I often see locals pop in for a quick caffeine fix before doing their grocery runs. The cafe offers wheelchair-accessible parking and seating, which makes it inclusive for everyone.

The coffee at Little Sparrow isn't the best I've ever had, but it hits the spot on a chilly morning. They do a decent flat white, and their cappuccinos are frothy enough for my liking. I once came in with my puppy, and the staff was totally okay with it. The dogs-allowed policy is a nice touch, given the number of dog lovers around.

The menu isn't extensive, but it has the usual brunch fare. The avocado smash is worth trying, though you might get better elsewhere. If you're looking for something sweet, the pastries here are fresh. I've become a fan of their almond croissant. It pairs well with a cup of strong black coffee.

One downside is that during peak hours, the wait can be longer than I like. But I usually plan my visits around it, so it's not a huge deal for me. The cafe's location inside a shopping center makes parking easy, a rare treat in Joondalup.

Near the cafe, there's a mix of interesting shops to check out. From fashion outlets to bookstores, you'll find a bit of everything. The shopping center is pretty big, and there's always something to do after a coffee break. If you wander a bit, you'll come across a cinema nearby. It's nice catching a movie after relaxing at the cafe.

A little further out, the Neil Hawkins Park offers a beautiful spot for a stroll. If you're up for some nature, the park's a great place with lots of green space and birds. It's a relaxing spot away from the shopping hubbub. I often combine a visit to the cafe with a walk in the park. The fresh air and nature are a perfect way to unwind.

And if you're hungry after your walk, there are nearby eateries offering different cuisines. You'll find Italian, Asian, and good old fish and chips not too far away. There's really no shortage of dining options if you're willing to explore a little bit.

The service at Little Sparrow is friendly but can be hit-and-miss at times. Some days, the staff is on point, and other times, they seem stretched with the crowd. It's not a dealbreaker for me, just something to keep in mind if you're in a rush.

As for seating, I've always found it comfortable enough, and the decorations have a simple charm. It doesn't try too hard but gives off a welcoming feel. It's a nice little spot to sit, sip, and watch the world go by within the hustle of Joondalup.

While it's not the most unique coffee shop in Perth, Little Sparrow serves its purpose. The location is convenient, and the atmosphere relaxed, making it a regular stop for coffee lovers in Joondalup. If you're in the area, it's worth popping in for a quick drink. With its straightforward vibe and practical offerings, it fits well into a day of shopping or a casual meetup.

Overall, Little Sparrow Cafe offers what you need when you need it. It's not the fanciest, but it delivers a reliable place for coffee in this part of Perth. I'll probably be back again, as it's rare to find cafés that welcome dogs and offer such accessibility. Here's to more visits and more discovery, one cup at a time!