Brunch with a backstory? The Glass Den has one of the best in Melbourne. Set inside Coburg's historic Pentridge precinct, the former prison grounds, it fills a space that has seen more than a century of history. Original bluestone walls and steel-barred windows still frame the room. These days, though, what lies behind those heavy doors is a warm, modern cafe that's all about making brunch feel like an occasion. Brunch is very much the main event. The signature salmon benedict is the dish to beat, but there are plenty of hearty options for bigger appetites. Take the slow-cooked pulled beef benedict, with tender beef and poached eggs piled onto buttery shokupan and finished with silky yuzu hollandaise. The menu is veg and halal friendly, too, so the whole table is covered. As for the drinks, there's good coffee and a lineup of signature sips led by the strawberry coconut matcha. Cocktails are on offer for anyone turning brunch into a long, lazy affair. Walk-ins are welcome, but bookings are a smart move on weekends, when the bluestone room really comes alive. Images: Supplied. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
