Merchant & Maker
This beachfront McCrae cafe is worth the drive along the Mornington Peninsula.
Overview
Sitting just across the road from the McCrae beachfront, this award-winning cafe is a long-time favourite for locals and day trippers alike. Sporting a recent makeover, it's an inviting, light-filled spot, slinging coffee from sibling roasters Commonfolk, alongside a seasonal, produce-driven food offering.
Pull up a seat for modern brunch classics like white chocolate and mascarpone mousse pancakes, chipotle braised beans with slow-roasted pork belly, and the zucchini and chickpea fritters matched with goats curd, and pea and mint hummus. Meanwhile, sides like almond dukkah spinach, hot-smoked salmon and garlic-roasted mushrooms mean the build-your-own option is always a popular choice.
If you're not jumping in the water too soon after brunch, the booze list is a sure-fire hit — settle in with a Mornington Brewery tap beer, or maybe an espresso martini crafted on vodka infused with Commonfolk beans. Your sweet tooth will be in great hands, too, thanks to a dreamy range of house-made treats beckoning from that front cabinet.
Information
- The Best Places in Melbourne to Take Your Mum This Mother's Day (or Any Day)
- Ten of the Best Walks in and Around Melbourne
- The Best Things to Do on Anzac Day in Melbourne
- Hop to It: 16 Classic and Eclectic Films You Can Stream This Easter Long Weekend
- Nine Grown-Up Easter Treats to Hunt Down Around Melbourne
- The Seven Best Caves to Visit Near Melbourne