Whilst a cafe specialising in toast isn’t a new concept, its the first of its kind to open up in Melbourne. There has certainly been a movement towards single-item menus in the past few years, and whilst toast cafes have achieved popularity in the U.S, cereal and even porridge cafes have recently been popping up in all parts of the world.
Located on the quieter end of Victoria St in Richmond, Crompton’s fit-out is clean and minimal with several window seats and a large sharing table forming the centre piece of the cafe. Seating only 20 people, the cafe is relatively small however there are plans to expand the outdoor dining area.
The menu centres around its signature toasts which are a little fancier than the average toast but still remain well-priced from $6.50 to $9. This includes combinations from Fig, Ricotta and Honey to Spinach Pesto and Prosciutto (Avocado aficionado’s will revel in the fact that Spiced Avocado and Coriander toast is also offered). The toast is thick cut to an inch thickness and whilst white toast is the default option, you can also choose to substitute this for multi-grain. For those who prefer the classic toast alternatives, there’s also Vegemite (with optional grilled cheese) and Fruit toast.
When it comes to something as simple as toast, it is easy to have certain expectations and Crompton Coffee delivers. Whilst some of the service processes could do with some improvement, the staff were friendly and helpful and i’m sure the processes would improve after a few more weeks (It’s only been a week since it opened). Overall, the cafe offers easy breakfast options without the complexity of thinking about ‘what to eat’ and I was impressed with the creativity of the various toast combinations. Most of the toast combinations are not something I’d be whipping up at home so I’m excited to see how Crompton Coffee progresses and what other new toasts they will add to the menu.
The toasts
Fruit toast with cinnamon butter ($4 slice, $7.5 two slices)
I don’t think I need to go into too much detail here, other than the fact it was pretty good piece of toast and the butter-to-toast ratio was perfect. Loved the addition of cinnamon sugar and the extra serving of cinnamon sugar on the side. (Because you won’t be able to get enough!)
Fig, ricotta, honey and black pepper
Figs are one of those fruits that can instantly transform what might be an ordinary dish and the fig, ricotta and honey here was a stellar combination of flavours. The cooked figs were soft, mildly sweet and juicy. I would have liked a little more honey but other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Spinach pesto and prosciutto
Incredibly flavoursome and both the prosciutto and pesto complemented each other perfectly.
Coffee by Small Batch
Crompton Coffee
380 Victoria Street
Richmond 3121
http://www.cromptoncoffee.com
