Dovetail on Overend

Overview

Scattered throughout suburban Brisbane are plenty of top-notch cafes, sitting pretty between Queenslanders, somewhat of a local secret. Thanks to the power of the internet, and websites like this one, these locals-only caffeination depots are arguably becoming as popular as favourite inner-city cafes.

One such place worth both selfishly keeping a secret and shouting about from the rooftops is Dovetail on Overend. The tiny galley of a cafe in Norman Park offers a small but enticing menu, stocks a delicious selection of cakes (including the incredible Nodo doughnuts) and has a very strong coffee game.

Avo on sourdough, gluten-free muesli and baked eggs all make an appearance, but the real winner here is the Bangalow Babe ($11.90) — a sourdough toasted sandwich stacked with Bangalow ham, gruyere cheese and tarragon mustard. Our hot tip: add avocado for $3. You'll never need another toasted sandwich again. Just don't ask how much butter is used.

Pumping out cups of Uncle Joe's, coffee is serious business here — to the point that they claim to have bought and tested every almond milk available, and the result is a creamy latte rather than nut foam hiding a long black below. Staff are friendly, knowledgeable and warm — the way they should be at any suburban cafe. You want to feel at home here, and the coffee must be better than your DIY efforts. Dovetail excels on both fronts.

Tip: Seating is all outside on the pavement under a wide veranda, not ideal for very hot days but fine most of the times.