The cafe on Thompson Avenue

Fork and Waffle Cafe is the only waffle-focused kitchen on Phillip Island. On Thompson Avenue in Cowes, it is a weekend ritual for locals and the first stop for visitors who have heard about it from someone who has been.

The space has a personality of its own. Dark walls, trailing tropical plants, festoon lights overhead, mismatched chairs, a lit display fridge stocked with produce. It does not look like every other cafe because it was not built to. There is a covered outdoor terrace with a garden feel and room for dogs, families, and anyone who wants to take their time.

The coffee is freshly ground, the waffles are thick and properly made, and the staff bring your dog a water bowl before you have ordered. Some places feel like they are doing you a favour by existing. This one feels like it is glad you came.