Cafe 613

Cafe 613 in Subiaco is my kind of spot for a quick caffeine fix. Located where McCourt and Cambridge Streets meet, it's an easy find. I go here a lot because it's close and has a laid-back vibe. It's part of the St. John of God Subiaco Hospital, which might sound odd, but the area is super charming. Just walking around the neighborhood is pleasant. Subiaco is known for its mix of greenery and urban style, and Cafe 613 sits right in the middle of it.

Inside, the cafe looks normal, nothing too fancy. They have ample space for wheelchair users, which is a big plus. It's comforting to know everyone is welcome and can move around easily. The seating is pretty casual; not the most stylish, but it does the job. This place isn't about fancy decorations or elaborate setups. It's simple, they focus on serving good coffee and light meals. The crowd is mostly locals or hospital visitors, so you get a range of folks from chatty regulars to quiet readers.

The cafe's hours could be better. They open at 8 am and close by 2:30 pm from Monday through Friday. They shut down completely on weekends, which baffles me since that's prime coffee time for many. I find myself planning weekday errands around their schedule. It's a bit annoying, but the convenience during weekdays makes up for it.

The coffee is decent. They have the usual suspects like flat whites, cappuccinos, and lattes. The baristas seem to know their stuff, although it can be hit or miss. Busy times might rush the service, but usually, it's good for a standard cup. They also offer takeaway if you're in a rush, which is handy. Their food menu leans towards light brunch items. Nothing too heavy, which suits someone looking for a quick bite. Think sandwiches, wraps, and occasionally salads. They're not reinventing the wheel here, but everything tastes fresh enough.

Being in the heart of Subiaco has its perks. On a good day, the surroundings add to the experience. After grabbing coffee, you can explore nearby parks like Lake Jualbup. It's nice to take a walk, with the lake being super relaxing. Or, if culture's your thing, Subiaco Arts Centre isn't too far off. It hosts various local shows that are worth checking out.

If you want a little shopping spree, stroll down Rokeby Road. It's dotted with quirky boutiques and stores. The area has a notable charm, blending modern cafe culture with old-school Subiaco vibes. Everything is mostly walking distance, so you can easily turn your coffee run into an afternoon adventure.

Back in the cafe, the crowd can sometimes be a mix of business people and local students. You might even catch a few hospital staff on their breaks. It keeps the atmosphere vibrant but not too loud. People tend to be polite, and conversations don't dominate the room. They have free Wi-Fi, making it convenient if you need to address some quick emails. Just don't bank on it being super fast, but it's stable.

Dogs are allowed, which adds a nice touch. I love seeing a pooch chilling with its owner by their side. It adds to that laid-back feel that surrounds the cafe. There's something warming about dogs in a cafe, they bring a little joy to the space.

Overall, my visits to Cafe 613 are usually nice and straightforward. It's not the newest hit or a trending spot, but it doesn't need to be. They keep things simple and approachable. The staff mostly seem friendly, greeting regulars with a familiar nod. It's that kind of cozy place you'd drop into without much thought, just part of the neighborhood fabric.

So, while some may find its limited hours a tad frustrating, it remains a staple in my coffee shop rotation. Maybe not my top choice for a weekend escape, but perfect for those weekday mornings when you just want a decent cup and a bit of quiet before the day gets going. The presence of Subiaco's bustling life around makes it more than just another cafe in Perth.