Zeal Banh Mi

I dropped by Zeal Banh Mi in Midland this week. The spot's along Great Eastern Highway, not too far from the hustle and bustle of the city. What caught my eye first was how cozy and welcoming it looks from the outside. Inside, the vibe's laid-back, just like I enjoy when I'm out to relax with a coffee. The place was hopping with people, yet it never felt cramped. There's something simple and charming about a spot that welcomes you right in with warm smiles and a casual air.

I'd read about their high rating before my visit. That 4.9 average got my hopes sky-high, and it didn't let me down. Zeal Banh Mi specializes in, you guessed it, banh mi — those tasty Vietnamese sandwiches. But their coffee is what brought me there, after all! I grabbed a latte and, for fun, a Vietnamese iced coffee, too. Both drinks hit the spot, but the iced coffee was my favorite, with just the right kick of sweetness and strength to fuel my afternoon. The baristas here clearly know their stuff.

Anyway, Zeal Banh Mi also offers a few snacky bits, perfect if you need a little something to munch on with your brew. A bit of sweetness or savory crunch with your coffee is never a bad thing. Next time, I might try one of those famed sandwiches. I've heard they're packed with flavor and the bread is crispy, just like authentic banh mi should be. It's easy to see why it's a local favorite.

One thing you should know is they're closed on weekends. That's a bit of a bummer if you're a weekend explorer like me. So, pencil in a weekday trip if you want to experience their offerings. The place opens at 9 am and closes by 3 pm. That makes it a great late breakfast or lunch spot, especially if you need a caffeine boost to power through those midday slumps.

When I visit coffee places, I always check if they're easy to access, and Zeal got this right. They have a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, ensuring everyone can enjoy their service. Plus, they've got space for wheelchairs inside, so no worries about navigating around the place.

Something else I love about Midland is the range of other things to do nearby. You can stroll over to the Midland Gate Shopping Centre if you're in the mood to shop or see a movie. It's a great place to wander around after grabbing a coffee.

For the outdoorsy folks, there's the Swan Valley not too far away. It's known for its wineries and beautiful scenery. Spending a day touring vineyards after a morning coffee is an adventure of its own. If you're up for a bit of history, head over to the Midland Railway Workshops. It's a cool spot for those curious about local history and industrial architecture.

Also, I can't forget to mention that dogs are welcome at Zeal Banh Mi. I didn't bring my fur buddy this time, but it's good to know for future visits. Having a coffee with your dog by your side makes everything better!

There's also takeout if you're in a rush or just want to enjoy your coffee somewhere else. They offer delivery, which is a nice perk if you're swamped and can't visit in person but need a caffeine fix.

Overall, I'd say Zeal Banh Mi is a charming little haven for coffee lovers. With its straightforward menu, friendly service, and those standout drinks, it's easy to see why locals love it. It's places like these that make exploring coffee spots in Perth such a fun experience. Midland's got a gem in Zeal Banh Mi, and I'll be sure to return soon, with my dog in tow, of course.