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Matcha Mylkbar, Melbourne

“Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances of survival of life on Earth, as much as the evolution to a plant based diet” claims Albert Einstein on Matcha Mylkbar’s website.

This 100% plant-base café is by far one of the quirkiest cafes in Melbourne. This café’s concept is all about bringing vegan food to life, with a matcha twist.

The setting

Matcha Mylkbar is set in the heart of the bustling St Kilda, on the famous Acland Street. This Glowcation is all about green neon lights, pink floral walls, plus white and black interiors.

The little things that make a difference

Matcha Mylkbar adds their Matcha Maiden powder to almost every single one of their dishes ( on quite a large food menu).

The fresh juice test

They offer two fresh juices – orange and pineapple. Plus, five smoothies with intriguing names  – including When Daenerys Wears Lycra…

However, we decided to review their blue algae smurf latte.

It’s an unusual blend of live e3 algae, pineapple, ginger, almond milk and coconut nectar. Talk about thinking outside the box. It was sweet, creamy and trumps a standard latte any day.

What we ate

It’s hard to choose when the menu is so diverse. I went for the matcha pancakes. These pancakes are gluten free, with salted caramel ice cream, chocolate sauce, candied cacao nibs, raspberries, blueberries and candied peanuts.

I also chose their iconic matcha green burger. It’s filled with a garden grown protein patty, their signature fluorescent matcha bun, avocado, chickpea and beetroot hummus, crispy chickpeas, spinach, with sweet potato fries and vegan aioli.

They’ve made vegan green burger buns a thing and I’m loving it.

I also tried their low fodmap breakfast bowl which was packed with sumac crusted avocado, broccoli, raw spinach, wilted kale, matcha infused Australian quinoa, beetroot hummus and butter beans. Who would have thought that such a simple dish could look so stunning?

What we’d go back for…

The super friendly staff at Match Mylkbar and the gorgeous co-founder Sarah Holloway who is always so welcoming to anyone and everyone.

The bill

Smurf latte $9
Matcha pancakes  $22
Matcha burger  $24
Low Fodmap breakfast bowl  $19.50

 

 

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Winter, Melbourne

Julien Moussi is a pioneering restauranteur breaking all the boundaries of healthy eating cafés. He has an established and highly impressive track record for going above and beyond when it comes to creating cool cafés. His new Melbourne opening, Winter is no exception. It’s currently the most talked about café in Melbourne. Here’s why…

The space

With white decor, light wood tables and chairs, clean interiors and bright natural light, you can’t fault it the decor at Winter. There’s a large seating area inside and a small terrace outside on the pavement.

The little things that make a difference

The food presentation has to be seen to be believed. Winter’s food styling and plating is an absolute work of art.

It’s almost cruel to eat it when it looks that good!

 

The fresh juice test

They may not have a green juice on offer, but they do have a green matcha latte which is just as good. They use the Matcha Maiden latte blend and it’s absolutely delicious. Mixed with almond milk, it’s a match made in heaven. I also got to try their mango smoothie which was like having sunshine in a cup. The mango and coconut milk reminded me of an Indian mango Lassi, only much thicker and more delicious

What we ate

For my review, I started off with their new super greens salad.

I love a hearty greens bowl so this ticked all the boxes for me.

It included broccolini, kale, grilled asparagus, sugar snap peas, beetroot hummus, a poached egg and a side of avocado. All topped with herbs and spices to give it a boost in flavour.

I had to try their Nutella crumpets. Crumpets  are an old school favourite of mine and they did not disappoint. With caramelised banana, fresh berries, crushed roasted hazelnuts, raspberry puree and honeycomb… need I say more? Although they may have been cold by the time I had taken my photos and taken my first bite, they were still divine.

What we’d go back for…

The food obviously, plus the staff were so attentive, warm and friendly.

The bill

Nutella crumpets  $18
Super greens salad  $19
Mango smoothie  $10.5
Matcha latte  $6

 

 

 

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Shanklin, Melbourne

Shanklin provides “modern Australian cuisine that’s simple, creative and delicious”. And they are at the top of their game with ‘Instagrammable’ food. We’re talking Oreo pancake stacks, rainbow bowls, edible flowers and latte art on a whole new level.

The space

Shanklin is set in the suburb of Hawthorn East. They’ve got a huge indoor area, plus a sheltered courtyard with outdoor seating and they’ve got outdoor heating too. Decor-wise, they have a range of photo-worthy backdrops for all your food photography.

Brick walls, grey concrete walls and distressed wooden tables, it’s a food bloggers dream.

The little things that made a difference…

The owner Francis always greets everyone with such a warm and friendly welcome. He makes you feel like he’s welcoming you into his home.

The fresh juice test

Shanklin do freshly squeezed single juice, but don’t have a green juice. So, for my review, I went for a  green smoothie which was the perfect blend of kale, banana and coconut water. Earthy and sweet all in one. Plus, we had the berry red Açai smoothie which was super refreshing.

What we ate

You have to try their Nutella stuffed pancakes. These are served with berries, grilled banana, vanilla ice cream and Oreo crumbles. They are beyond delicious, but seriously indulgent so make sure you bring a friend to share them with.

We also tried their Super Green which was my personal favourite. It’s smashed avocado on sourdough toast, with goats cheese, grilled asparagus, spinach, pea puree and dukkah.

You will find it such a simple combination, but they manage to make it look like a masterpiece.

Finally, we also got to try their portobello mushroom which is their speciality and the chef’s recommendation. This is served with roasted red pepper, halloumi, poached eggs and chilli oil. It’s a flavour sensation.

What we’d go back for…

To have all my favourite food available on one menu at one place.

The bill

Nutella Pancakes  $22
Super Green $22
Portobello Mushroom  $23
Green Smoothie $12
Açai Smoothie  $12

 

 

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Our favourite Glowcations, Melbourne

Melbourne is the foodie capital of Australia with cafés competing to create Instagram-hitting, rainbow-coloured,  memory-making menus. It’s also one of our favourite cities in the world to visit for plant-based cafés. Here’s our top three vegan and vegetarian cafés in Melbourne:

Bentwood, Fitzroy

Julien Moussi is the undisputed king of the Melbourne café scene. With thirteen successful launches under his belt, he champions innovative, plant-based food. Our Glowstar, Jess Moses,  lives in Melbourne and she rates Bentwood as the best of his uber impressive portfolio.  Located in the former Thonet furniture showroom, where the iconic Bentwood wooden café chairs were made, Bentwood serves the most innovative, grammable  food in Melbourne.

Their famous hotcakes served with raspberry curd, berries, meringue and mascarpone are a taste sensation to remember.

Our tip, don’t miss their signature chia pudding.  It’s a butterfly pea chia pudding, served with creamy coconut yoghurt, mango jerky, fresh berries and the most incredible buckwheat clusters. You won’t be disappointed.

Treehouse Lounge, St Kilda’s

Treehouse Lounge was already a go-to spot for most locals in St Kilda. But, with a recent renovation, and new management, it’s looking better than ever.

There are so many delicious plant-based friendly options on the menu, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

From pulled jackfruit tacos to a vegan chilli tofu scramble. Glowstar Jess loves the Not Just Avocado. “It goes far beyond any avo smash I’ve ever had’, she says. Imagine thick smashed avocado on multi-grain sourdough bread, with rainbow beetroot slices, roasted heirloom carrots, fresh lime, toasted seeds, ricotta mousse and a poached egg. Also worth ordering is their Roasted Cauliflower and Kale Salad.  It’s packed with kale, roasted cauliflower, pumpkin hummus, toasted seeds, fresh pomegranate, two poached eggs and dukkah.

For dessert, they’re also the first café in Melbourne to stock the Thai born smoothie bowl brand, NanaBowls on the menu. Jess is biased as she co- created the company, but they’re delicious!

MOB, Camberwell

This café is another brainchild  of Julien Moussi. MOB is set in the heart of Camberwell, one of the best foodie locations in Melbourne. It’s hidden away in a prime position in the car park behind Burke’s Row near the famous Sunday market. Walls are white tiled, there are ceramic floors, vintage lights and wooden high stools.

Our Glowstar Jess genuinely couldn’t decide what to get, as the menu is just too good!  For breakfast she suggests their granola bowl with a base of their homemade granola, topped with fresh yogurt, açai, fresh banana slices, kiwi, strawberries, crunchy nuts and runny peanut butter.

As a lunch option try their Nourish Salad with the most delicious grilled halloumi.

Even Jess’ meat obsessed boyfriend loves it!  Last but not least, visit for their food art. They’ve mastered it – and more – at MOB.

 

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Treehouse Lounge, Melbourne

Treehouse Lounge was already a go-to spot for most locals in St Kilda. But, with a recent renovation, and new management, it’s looking better than ever. We’re talking new menu, new staff and updated decor. The Treehouse facelift is what everyone in Melbourne is talking about.

The setting

Treehouse Lounge is on Carlisle Street in St Kilda’s Balaclava, the heart of café culture in Melbourne. It’s also a great hub for cool shops.

The space

It’s like an indoor treehouse come to life- restored wood and hanging plants. My favourite part is the bright natural light that floods in through the huge window … obviously a bonus when it comes to food photography!

Treehouse Lounge uses natural, earthy, elements to create a relaxed vibe for meeting friends or sitting and working using the free WiFi.

The little things that make a difference

The team go above and beyond. Once you’re greeted with a big smile and a friendly chat, the staff and owner do whatever you can to make your experience a pleasant one. They support local small businesses and giving back to the community.

The fresh juice test

As they’ve recently re-opened, they’re still fine tuning their juice menu. Fresh juices will be on the cards, but for now it’s all about the matcha lattes by Matcha Maiden, turmeric lattes by Golden Grind and the Treehouse homemade smoothies to quench your thirst.

What I ate

There are so many delicious plant-based friendly options on the menu, you’ll be spoilt for choice. From pulled jackfruit tacos to a vegan chilli tofu scramble.

For my review, I went for three stunning dishes that delivered a serious taste sensation. The first was the ‘Not Just Avocado’, and they’re right.  It goes far beyond any avo smash I’ve ever had. Imagine thick smashed avocado on multi-grain sourdough bread, with rainbow beetroot slices, roasted heirloom carrots, fresh lime, toasted seeds, ricotta mousse and a poached egg.

I also tried their Roasted Cauliflower and Kale Salad which is now my new favourite dish. It’s packed with kale, roasted cauliflower, pumpkin hummus, toasted seeds, fresh pomegranate, two poached eggs and dukkah.

It’s the perfect combo of fresh, hearty and filling all in one.

Last, but not least, was the Heirloom Carrot Salad. This is served with barley, crunchy roasted chickpeas, caramelised roasted carrots, pomegranate seeds, kale, a poachie and a delicious tahini yoghurt dressing. Yum!

For dessert, they’re also the first and only cafe in Melbourne to have the Thai born smoothie bowl brand, NanaBowls on the menu. They’re exclusively serving the Peanut Butter Salted Caramel and the Strawberry Bliss flavours… all with extra toppings. I’m biased as we created the company, but they’re delicious!

What we’d go back for…

The challah french toast. Who wouldn’t glow when you’re served a soft thick piece of french toast with nut crumble, toasted hazelnuts, Nutella mousse, fresh berries and a roasted marshmallow?

The bill

Matcha latte  $5.50
Not Just Avocado  $18
Cauliflower and kale salad  $18.90
Heirloom carrot salad  $18
Peanut butter salted caramel Nana Bowl  $15
Challah french toast  $18.50

 

 

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Melbourne Middle South East

If you’re in need of some seriously good food with big portions and a Middle Eastern twist, then Middle South East is your match!

The space

This café is large, spacious and is set in a top location- just a walk away from the bustling Chapel Street. So if you need a break from your shopping, Middle South East is a perfect refuelling station.

They’ve got lots of outdoor seating with heaters, so you’ll be able to enjoy the outdoors all year round.

Inside is minimal and sleek. Imagine slate grey floors, cream walls and cool oak chairs.

The fresh juice test

Their signature green smoothie is called the Mango Mambo and it’s well worth tasting. It’s a blend of coconut flesh, mango, banana, passion fruit, chia, spinach, mesquite, vanilla raw, fermented protein powder and almond milk. It’s presented in a tall glass, with little dish of toppings on the side for you to add yourself. It’s thick and creamy… almost like a meal in itself.

What we ate

The menu is a mix of healthy Middle Eastern options and Aussie brunch staples. First off, I started with their bircher muesli. It has a base of rainbow quinoa, with coconut milk, fresh fruit, nuts and seeds.  It certainly ticked all the texture boxes for me.

Next, I went for their ‘Sahtein’ Superfood Salad. The bowl was packed with kale, quinoa, bulgar wheat, chilli, brocollini, sugar snap peas, avocado, hummus and a poached egg. It was bright, fresh and felt seriously nourishing.

When I saw sweet potato chips on the menu, of course I had to get a side.

These fries were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They had a delicious Middle Eastern spice and were not too fried… just the way I like them.

Finally, I ordered a hot almond milk golden latte to wash it all down – sunshine in a cup!

The little things that make a difference

Mace, the owner of Middle South East,  is a character you definitely want to meet. He’s warm, friendly and funny. It feels like he’s welcoming you into his home. With his middle eastern background,

Mace has added a twist to traditional brunch food and has given it a bit of an inspirational  kick.

What we’d go back for…

The food styling was spot on. Everything with bursting with colour and vibrancy, plus there were some serious crockery goals happening too. I’m still dreaming about that Mango Mambo smoothie with all the crunchies.

The bill

Turmeric latte  $4.20
Mango Mambo smoothie  $12.50
Bircher muesli  $14
Salad bowl  $18
Sweet potato fries  $7

 

 

 

 

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Melbourne Shade Café

Shade Café is the new plant-based kid on the block in  Melbourne and takes café food to a whole new level. It branches out above and beyond the standard smashed avo toast.

The space

This cafe is an Instagrammer’s dream. It’s super stylish with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, hanging amber light bulbs and outdoor seating. I couldn’t stop snapping away.

The fresh juice test

Shade have a yummy range of smoothies and juices including a green juice combo of green apples, celery, cucumber, spinach and the added citrus kick of orange.

But their signature drinks are the “posh shakes”. So, I had to try the Malteaser Posh Shake because, well…. It’s a Malteaser posh shake. It was designed and tasted better than you could ever imagine. All in a mason jar with a plastic free straw too… win win!

What we ate

Let’s start off with the deserts because that’s way more fun. We tried their Mango Coconut Rice Pudding.

It was seriously creamy and fluffy, topped with toasted coconut shards, fresh berries and a baked pear.

It wasn’t too sweet and was very filling, I would highly recommend it.

Next, let’s talk about the Croffle. This is when a croissant and a waffle collide, and boy is it a match made in heaven. Sandwiched in between a scoop of strawberry ice cream for some texture contrast and a selection of fresh fruit… it was a seriously genius work of art.

They also have a large and varied savoury menu catering for vegans, vegetarians and meat eaters. We chose their low carb bowl (that’s actually served on a plate ) which is packed with cauliflower rice, bean sprouts, pickled red cabbage, edamame beans, asparagus, kale, fried enoki and a house made baba ganoush.

The little things that make a difference

The chef’s brief, “plate beautifully, deliver crowd favourites with flair and spike the interest of the food adventurer” makes a huge difference.

What else

The staff were super friendly and welcoming. Josh their head waiter couldn’t have been happier to help.

What we’d go back for…

Their golden latte with almond milk was so creamy and flavourful; a real hug in a mug.

The bill

Turmeric latte  $5.50
Malteser Posh Shake  $10
Low Carb Shade bowl  $18.50
Croffle  $18.00
Rice pudding  $17.00

For more Melbourne inspiration click here.

 

 

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Make 2019 your best year yet

Blue Monday is the third Monday in January so dubbed by psychologist Dr Chris Arnell while advising a travel company on the most depressing day of the year. It was the perfect excuse to book a summer holiday to cheer you up. But most of us don’t need a branding exercise to remind us that January can be a tricky month. Yes it’s cold, grey and the lights and parties of December are behind us but here our Glowstars give their 2019 tips, resolutions and plans to help you make this year your best year yet.

Jess @freshlysnapped

Every year I start off with the best intentions, I always feel so driven and motivated, however these goals start to dwindle as the year goes on. So this year, in 2019, I’m not setting massive goals that feel daunting or overwhelming.

I am going to set tiny little micro missions and take baby steps to get there.

It may be a tiny change every single day, but over time, it could lead to something big. After all, we are what we repeatedly do. Whether it’s applied to work, relationships or fitness, this philosophy can get you anywhere!

Eli @cerealandpeanutbutter

2019 is going to be my best year yet, because I have learnt to be more in tune with my mind and my body than ever before, and I plan to implement this from start to finish of the coming year. This includes eating more mindfully – just because there is a whole spread of desserts on the table, it doesn’t mean you need to try each one.

I will also ask myself  if I really want to do that high intensity fitness bootcamp on a cold dark Monday morning – perhaps I’d benefit more from a slower-paced yoga class instead?

 Fabienne @modelslovefood

I’m starting my 2019 in Tokyo (for my work), which is one of my most favourite cities in the world. I’ve told myself I should enjoy it more than last time when I was there and not be to strict with myself.

I want to do more yoga, meditation and pilates and go more into the Japanese food culture. There’s a reason the Japanese are the oldest folk in the world right?

Jenna @jennahopenutrition

I’m really excited about 2019 as I’ve just launched a new business and I’m planning a wedding so there’s lots going on. At the beginning of 2018, I started writing a daily gratitude diary twice a day which has really revolutionised my mindset. I will definitely carry this on into 2019.

I also plan to continue working out regularly as this helps with my mental wellbeing, positivity and productivity.

I won’t be changing the food I’m eating, as I’m pretty happy at the moment focusing on eating foods which nourish me. Although, I will be trying to focus more on eating mindfully, as I think appreciating our food and eating it slowly is incredibly beneficial for our overall health rather than just munching it down on the go.

Bekah @bitesbybekah

I’m so excited to continue sharing my love for plant-based food on my blog and experimenting with new recipes, discovering new eateries, and connecting with more people in this amazing community. I’m actually starting 2019 in the US, working on my PhD for a few months, which will be quite an adjustment from life in the UK. I have a few trips planned while I’m across the pond and plan to make the most of my time in the States.

I recently signed up for my first half-marathon, taking place in May 2019.

The longest I’ve ever run is 10K, so a half marathon sounds quite daunting. But I cannot wait to take on the challenge!

 

Amy @nourishing.amy

I don’t believe in #newyearnewme and I am very proud to say that 2019 will be the same old me doing the same sort of thing, but with a renewed sense of purpose. New Year is a great time to set goals, but so is springtime when everything is blooming into life. I will carry through my determination to lead a happy, healthy and nourished life while working on my blog which I hope to see thrive in 2019. I aim to focus on being kinder to myself by taking up journaling again and writing down my daily gratitudes.

I will continue with my yoga practice, as this is my favourite thing that I do for me every single day.

 

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Stanley, Melbourne

Julien Moussi is the undisputed creative king of the Melbourne brunch café scene. With Stanley,  he’s launched another winning eatery located in a former milk bar on a corner of a residential street in Mount Waverley. Stanley is now the talk of the town.

The presentation is always on point with these guys! They know how to break the boundaries and take food art to a whole new level. It’s worth a visit just for the pics… but who are we kidding? You’ll want a taste it too. 

The space

With a classic, white and grey finish, this cafe has an understated design allowing the amazing menu do all the talking. There’s lots of indoor seating – room for 60 – and the linear space has calming pale wood furniture and plants.

They also have an outdoor courtyard, which is heated all day long and designed to work in all seasons.

The little things that make a difference

The super friendly staff who greet you with a huge smile as soon as you walk in! Coffee comes from Moussi’s Inglewood Coffee Roasters, and those passing by with the dog can order from the takeaway coffee window.

The fresh juice test

Stanley has no green juice, but offers three smoothies, coconut water, plus orange, mango or apple juice. I chose instead a deliciously, creamy turmeric coconut latte.

What we ate

The menu features colourful favourites from Moussi’s other cafes, such as granola and acai bowls, and avo on toast, but new to the mix are chocolate waffles oozing with nutella, and a crunchy golden schnitzel with slaw heaped on top.

Can I jump straight to dessert? I’m still dreaming about those ‘Nutella Hong Kong Waffles.’

Warm, fluffy and oozing with runny Nutella on the inside… what a dream! All served with vanilla mascarpone, banana brulée, berry purée and crushed pistachios.

Don’t worry, there is healthy food too! Their smashed avo toast wasn’t just any smashed avo toast. They used the most delicious thick toasted multigrain bread, a huge serving of smashed avo (which always makes me happy), a crispy potato rosti, sesame, chilli, feta and the most perfectly poached egg on top.

Once that egg was cracked open, it was just bliss from there on.

We also tried their Breakfast Bowl which was a mix of smoked yoghurt, quinoa, kale, avocado, halloumi, tomato and poached egg…the perfect option for anyone who loves a good savoury brekkie.

What we’d go back for…

Their turmeric coconut latte (drank too quickly to photograph)… but seriously makes you feel golden on the inside.

The bill

Nutella waffles  $20
Smashed avo Toast  $16
Breakfast bowl  $18.50
Turmeric coconut latte  $6

 

 

 

 

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Bentwood Melbourne

Bentwood is a Fitzroy gem and can be found in a seriously cool disused chair showroom.

Julien Moussi is the king of Melbourne brunch cafés. He’s created another must visit eatery located in a former Thonet furniture showroom. It was here that the iconic Bentwood wooden café chairs were made. The café is packed with the chairs and it also serves the most innovative, Instagram worthy food…

 

The setting

Bentwood is set in the heart of Fitzroy, the most hipster part of Melbourne.

The design team has chosen the whole exposed brick, metal ceiling and rustic interior vibes. They’ve got a huge open space, tons of natural light, tall ceilings, and an outdoor seating area too.

For all the food bloggers out there… those brick walls were an a absolute dream photo backdrop!

The little things

The food presentation was so on point. They had thought of every little detail. Bright colours, stylish serving plates,amazing textures and edible flowers!

What else

The staff were an absolute dream team. They’re all super friendly, quirky and wear the trendiest brown leather aprons. You’d want to go back just to hang with them!

The green juice test

Their green smoothie definitely got my seal of approval.

It’s a blend of kale, peaches, ginger, mango, honey and coconut water. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness, earthiness and zing all in one!

What we ate

First thing to mention is their signature chia pudding. This isn’t just any old chia pudding.

It’s a butterfly pea chia pudding, served with creamy coconut yoghurt, mango jerky, fresh berries and the most incredible buckwheat clusters… they were seriously delicious!

I also had to try their famous hotcakes (and obviously needed to get a snap of them too!) They were served with raspberry curd, berries, meringue and mascarpone. All I can say is… taste sensation!

To balance all those delicious sweet goods, I ordered their ‘Bikini Salad’ which was packed with kale, quinoa, cabbage, beans, beetroot hummus, halloumi and a poached egg – all dressed in a spiced dressing. Something that sounds so simple ended up tasting so yum.

The bill

Green smoothie   $9.90
Mango smoothie   $9.90
Hotcakes   $19.00
Butterfly Pea Chia Pudding   $17.50
Bikini Salad   $18.50

What made us glow

Honestly, I’m still dreaming about those buckwheat clusters!