Soulmate

Soulmate is unpretentious and delightful. The cafe has a laid-back, all-day menu covering staples including eggs, muesli and sausage rolls. The Soulmate Bae roll, when it's on the menu, is highly recommended – it's an elevated take on the bacon and egg roll, with house-made sambal, herb mayo and red Leicester cheese tucked in a soft potato bun.

Non-meat eaters can opt for a vegan dish which may include tofu scramble or a hearty mushroom toast: Brickfields sourdough smeared with a smooth, rich kale and kombu “butter”, topped with sauteed mushrooms, pickled onions and fresh dill. Lunchier options include a black-sausage sanga with herby aioli and sambal; a ciabatta roll with porchetta, braised greens and confit garlic; and a charred broccoli salad.

Soulmate’s excellent coffee is from Single O, whose filter and cold brew is poured from sleek batch taps. There’s an option to top your batch brew with whipped cream, too (that’s called The McHenry).

Solo diners or couples can sit on stools on the verandah facing the street. Or, nab a spot on the concrete step outside to caffeinate and solar charge. Inside, the pared-back fit-out by North House Projects and Porter and Maple creates an airy atmosphere with light American oak timber seating and smooth, curvy counters. Dogs are always welcome.