Mink, Parnell

Mink Cafe. Photo / Martin Sykes

Herald rating: * * * *
99 Parnell Rd

We chose this place because we felt in need of some sustenance after battling the crowds at the Parnell Farmers' Market.

Parking was a couple of streets away. We got lucky - it's rare to find a spot in these parts.

We walked in and immediately thought thank goodness this building is no longer a bar. Instead it's now a stylish, comfortable and light-filled cafe.

The most unusual thing on the menu was the Mink platter - a selection of meats, cheese, dips, olives, capers, smoked salmon and toast ($23 small, $32 large).

We ordered the french toast with bacon, baked banana, maple syrup and cream ($17.50) and an omelette with roasted potato, mushroom and herbs ($16.50). Omelettes can be a hit-and-miss meal - usually miss in my experience - but this was creamy, tasty and substantial. The french toast was equally good.

The service was great. Helpful and friendly.

The coffee was fine but nothing to sing about.

We recommend if you come here you fill up on coffee and tucker before wandering up the road to the farmers' market (Saturdays until midday) - it's well worth a visit.

Overall, we thought nice surroundings and food make this a popular spot with Parnell locals. If we lived closer we'd make it our regular too.