with a convenient corner block located directly across the road from fairfield train station, and a cafe that is both kid, bike and dog friendly… there is no wonder that my first impression of ‘bean counter’ a few weeks was of a vibrant local cafe.

there is a large footpath dining area buzzing with cyclists and commuters enjoying their morning coffee; and plenty of mums and bubs socialising in the back courtyard that comes complete with a children’s play area. however, this particular morning we opted for a table in the light-filled interior… showing there is plenty of room for all.

serving dibella coffee, i went for the ‘felici’ blend flat white: a medium-bodied roast with a spicy + rich texture of malt + dark chocolate. a smooth and enjoyable coffee.

there is an extensive drinks list that includes tea, fresh juices, shakes (both the traditional + extreme varieties) and smoothies. our fresh mango smoothie which was summery, tropical and creamy.

the menu changes seasonally, and our visit coincided towards the end of the spring menu… however a number of the staple dishes will remain and there appears to always be a good mix of sweet/savoury and light/heartier dishes available.

zucchini, corn + halloumi fritters topped with blanched spinach, fresh avocado, a poached egg + tomato salsa
beautifully presented, the first plus was my perfectly cooked poached egg. nothing pleases me more than a runny golden yolk when i’m eating breakfast! the fritters themselves were fluffy and soft, however i would’ve loved to have seen a more generous dose of corn and for them to be cooked just that little bit longer to crisp up the outer crust. the fact that this guilt-free dish is completely vegetarian and piled high with healthy spinach and soft avocado was definitely an asset… although i did add a side of bacon as i was starving (but that is completely optional).

pancake stack with bacon + canadian maple
this was a really pretty dish with a lattice of maple syrup across the plate. the pancakes were soft and moorish + the bacon was caramelised and crispy. personally i feel that in order to take this dish to the next level the use of something like buttermilk in the pancakes would add that extra touch of fluffiness, and perhaps a small serve of mascarpone or cream to help provide that creamy element. but overall, extremely enjoyed by my husband (and i sneaked a taste or two!).

overall, we had a really enjoyable morning in a very friendly + relaxed environment with equally as friendly service. craig, the manager, has an extensive background in hospitality including managing a busy city venue before switching into the cafe scene – and his desire for professionalism + good customer service shines through. in summary, i feel that if you’re looking for a minimalist interior with a cutting-edge menu, then this is the not the cafe for you; however for a friendly cafe with a great local feel, serving up a well-executed all-day breakfast menu that can cater to a wide variety of groups and individuals… then i’d certainly recommend paying ‘bean counter’ a visit. the cafe is open 7 days a week and from 7am each weekday, which means grabbing a quick breakfast or coffee before your run into work is also a must.

verdict: a friendly cafe with a great local feel
find: www.beancountercafe.com.au

(note: inlovewithbrunch dined as a guest of bean counter cafe, however all remarks and reviews are honest and genuine)