Stax

Not far from the State Library, ACTU buildings and in a little street directly opposite RMIT. Don't get a fright from the outside. It looks a little like an under-financed 50s Bendigo milk bar with nothing going on inside. Appearances couldn't be more deceptive. Shoulder aside the Commonwealth of Australia plastic antiblowfly strips to find a crisply coloured interior, functional high-gloss wooden benches, quietly humorous understated art works on walls, which proprietors Tamara Brown and Karen Batson collect. Good eye. Friendly place. Fast turnover. Menu changes every day. The food is so tasty. There's roasted pumpkin and zucchini in coconut milk with coriander couscous. Chicken schnitzel, avocado, chutney and salad bagels. A tray of tartlets to die for, stuffed to overflowing with macadamia nuts or fruits and the coffee is really excellent. If it's not your part of town, get them to come to you. They're worth it.

16 Little Latrobe Street
Melbourne
Melways reference 2F:D1
Phone: 9663 3008
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7.30am-4.30pm
Does not accept credit cards
Seats Inside: 24
Closed: Most public holidays
Features: No smoking, kids encouraged
Favourites: Vietnamese chicken $6, Roasted pumpkin in coconut served with couscous $6, Shepherd's pie $6.50 , Poached peaches with steamed rice and yoghurt $4.50