Monk BodhiDharma

Down a bluestone laneway behind Carlisle Street, this Balaclava cafe hides in a former bakery, all distressed brick and low light. The kitchen is entirely vegetarian, with much of the menu vegan and gluten-free, and takes its cooking seriously: house-roasted coffee under the Disciple Roasters name, an inventive all-day menu, and the occasional multi-course vegan degustation that draws diners from across town. It is walk-in only and easy to miss, which suits the slightly monastic mood. Balaclava has plenty of brunch options, but few treat plant-based cooking with this much intent, or reward the search down the lane so well. Open every morning through mid-afternoon.