Bruce Town

I wandered into Bruce Town, a coffee shop nestled in North Fremantle. It's not far from the Swan River and a short drive from Leighton Beach. This place has the kind of charm that makes you want to linger. They've got an easygoing vibe, much like the rest of the area. I love their early opening hours. Whether it's a Monday or a Saturday, they're up and running with hearty brews by 6 am.

The place caters to everyone, including our furry friends. You can lounge outside with your dog under Perth's sunny skies. The outdoor seating is ample and the tables spread nicely apart. If you're rolling in with a wheelchair or a cumbersome pram, the seating is accessible enough for easy movement. The same goes for their entrance, so you won't be left cursing design flaws, which is refreshing.

Coffee is the star here. They brew it strong and rich. You can enjoy it inside with friends, or take it away if you're on the go. They use beans that are roasted with care. The flavor comes out bold, with none of that burnt aftertaste. For those connected to their tech, Wi-Fi is there for your upload-download needs. Checking emails over a steaming latte couldn't get more laid-back.

For breakfast, their menu doesn't stretch on for pages, which I find handy. There's something about their bacon and egg roll that gets my gears turning in the morning. It goes for a down-to-earth approach without skimping on flavor. The avocado toast is another favorite, generous with toppings, yet balancing it just right. And the pastries—crispy on the outside, fluffy inside. Just right.

Beyond the coffees and bites, Bruce Town is in a lively part of town. North Fremantle bustles with little gems like the local art galleries around the area. Take a walk down Queen Victoria Street after savoring breakfast here. Stop by the nearby shops and fill a lazy morning without even realizing it. There's a vintage vibe to the shopfronts, wonderfully mingling old with new. You also have easy access to Swan River which makes for a perfect afternoon stroll soaking in some sun and fresh air.

Trains and buses aren't far for those popping in from other parts of Perth. The North Fremantle train station is just a stone's throw away. Handy if you've decided to leave the car behind and venture by public transport. For driving folks, parking might get tricky during peak hours, but it's manageable if you have some patience. Still, for a shop with this caliber of coffee and food, the slight hunt for a spot is a small trade-off.

The Bruce Town team believes in being community-centric. Everyone gets a warm welcome through their inviting doors. Their staff is friendly without going over the top. It's the kind of service that makes you feel at home, rather than just another guest. Also, for those concerned, they've got gender-neutral toilets, which is a nod to inclusion. The facilities are clean and convenient, checking off another box for those who value thoughtfulness.

If you're dragging a bit on hump day or simply need a weekend pick-me-up, Bruce Town slides in as a perfect choice. It's one of those places where each visit feels equally good. Every sip and bite is consistent, leaving you pleased and refreshed. This isn't a venue trying to do everything for everyone, but they nail what they do offer. Quality seems to be the backbone of their business.

For those days when the sun's just right and you've got time, pair your visit here with a walk toward the ocean. Leighton Beach isn't far, inviting you to dip your toes or just watch the waves. Or perhaps a quiet sit by the river on the way back. North Fremantle has that nice in-between place feel, close to city mania, yet rooted in coastal calmness.

So there you have it. Bruce Town is where coffee meets a community hug. I've made it a regular stop, and it seldom disappoints. Great coffee, honest food, and an atmosphere that wraps around you softly, that's the Bruce Town charm.