The Little Abbey

I've been to The Little Abbey a few times now, and it's a spot that kind of makes you feel right at home. You can find it in Nedlands, tucked away on Aberdare Road. The first time I went there, I was just passing by, but it's one of those places that gets into your must-visit list pretty quickly.

The first thing you notice is how it feels like a small community hangout. The folks there are always warm and laid back, making it a comfortable spot to take a break. I'm a sucker for coffee, and I have to say, theirs is legit. It's not just good; it's great, and they have this consistent quality to it. Whether you want a strong, punchy espresso to kick-start your day or a smooth latte for when you're in the mood to sip and relax, they've got you covered.

I'm also a big fan of the outdoor seating. There's an ease to sitting outside, especially when the Perth weather plays nice, which is often enough. Plus, you can bring your dog along. I see a lot of regulars who like to stop by after their morning walk, dog leashes in hand. It's like a mini rendezvous for dog lovers sometimes.

The opening hours are pretty convenient if you're an early riser. They kick things off at 6 am from Monday to Friday, which means you can grab something before heading to work. On Saturday, it opens at 6:30 am so you can have a mellow start to the weekend. Just a heads-up though, it's closed on Sundays, so plan around that.

I've already mentioned the coffee but the food, let's talk about that. The Little Abbey isn't about a vast menu; it's more about delivering quality in the few things they do offer. Think of simple, tasty bites that pair well with your coffee. It's mainly about breakfast and lunch, so expect things like pastries, sandwiches, and maybe even some sweet treats if you're lucky. They haven't got a kitchen meant for gourmet dining, but then again, that's not the vibe they're going for.

Something that stands out is their approachability. Need a quick bite? They've got takeaway sorted. Want to stick around? You can dine-in. Accessibility here is no issue – it's wheelchair-friendly which is thoughtful and important. It's nice seeing places take that extra step to ensure everyone can enjoy a good cup of coffee.

Now, looking around the area, Nedlands itself is a pretty vibrant neighborhood. Just nearby is Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, and trust me, it's worth a walk. It's perfect if you're in the mood for a scenic stroll or a bit of fresh air. The University of Western Australia isn't far off either, if you fancy a walk around the historic and picture-heavy campus.

Nearby, there are a few local shops and other cafes, but what you get at The Little Abbey feels more personal. It's always a mix of students, professionals, and just about anyone who wants to start their day with a smile. There's an evident social vibe without the noise and rush you might find at other spots.

Each visit seems to offer a new little discovery, whether it's a conversation with one of the baristas or trying out a different kind of blend. The customer service is top-notch too, which in my books, makes up a lot of the experience. And hey, a smile with my coffee goes a long way.

The ambiance is casual, nothing fancy, and that's precisely why it works so well. It's not about pizazz but rather about the genuine feel of the place. We're talking no airs, no pretenses, just a good coffee and a chat if you're up for it.

If you're in Nedlands or just passing through, give The Little Abbey a shot. It's one of those steady places where the locals go not just for the caffeine fix, but for the sense of ease it offers. It's quite a gem that balances the right kind of buzz with peacefulness. Plus, what's not to like about starting the day with great coffee and a bit of local charm?