Al Naturale Cafe

Al Naturale Cafe is a small, cosy spot in St Kilda with an Italian leaning, and it's the kind of place people stumble on and end up adopting. Look for it just behind the pub on Acland Street, easy to walk past if you're not looking.

The food leans fresh and made with care. Focaccia gets mentioned a lot, including a gluten-free version that a coeliac visitor was pleasantly surprised by (the prosciutto, mozzarella and pesto combination went down well, though they'd have liked it toasted a touch more). Eggs benedict has its fans, with a creamy hollandaise and well-cooked eggs, and the filo-crusted quiche has been singled out for its crispiness. Breakfast and brunch are a big part of the appeal, from French toast to a chilli scramble to shakshuka, and there's a lighter side too, including a wholegrain porridge with fresh fruit and nuts. Soup, toasties and wraps are there if you want something quick.

Drinks are a drawcard. They make their own nut milks, and the walnut flat white and tiramisu latte have both earned praise. Vegetarian and vegan options are on the menu, and there's cannoli and other sweet things for dessert.

You can dine in, with indoor and outdoor seating, or take your order away, and kerbside pickup and catering are also on offer. The shelves carry quality pantry products too, including pasta, if you want to take something home.

Staff are the other thing locals talk about. People describe a welcoming, friendly team who remember names and give good recommendations, and one visitor staying nearby for a fortnight said it quickly became their local. Value is generally seen as fair for the quality, though one diner found it a little pricey on a public holiday and still thought it worth it.

One local noted a small mix-up over a cheese on a soup order, so if you're particular about an ingredient, it's worth saying so when you order. They're open daily through the day, but check the hours before you head in.