Legacy Camberwell

The perennially popular cafe, Legacy Camberwell, continues to draw queues at the weekend. And why not? With its toasted brick floors, pale timber finishes and eclectic, colourful menu it’s an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch or simply a great cup of coffee.

Legacy Camberwell

Location: 347 Camberwell Rd, Camberwell, VIC 3124 Ph: (03) 9041 1796

It’s fair to say that Legacy was one of the first hipster-cool cafes to open in the traditionally beige surrounds of Camberwell as few years back. Now Camberwell cafes are varied and offer a range of exciting menus. Hell, there is even a rash of bars and other fashionable drinking spots to choose from these days (aside from the much-loved Bar None).

However, when Legacy Camberwell first opened, its arrival resulted in queues out the door. A rare sight in those parts at that time.

Legacy Camberwell - Exterior

Move forward to 2023 and whilst it’s no longer the new kid on the block, Legacy Camberwell has cemented itself as a spot for consistently good coffee and a tasty menu revealing a few welcome surprises.

For another great casual dining spot not a million miles from this one, see our review of Linger Cafe

The Space

For some reason, the decor of Legacy Camberwell always gives me a Scandinavian vibe. Perhaps it’s the blond wood cabinetry and sleek, minimal feel.

A long communal table sits across from the serving counter, whilst the back of the cafe houses smaller tables for more intimate meetings.

Legacy Camberwell - Interior

High-ceilinged and airy, interesting use is made of bricks as a design feature. The floor and sections of wall are made of golden, biscuity brick and they provide a spine along the centre of that large central dining isle.

Pot plants add contrasting bursts of green and the result is a peaceful, relaxed venue to spend a chilled brunch with friends.

Read our guide to the Best Cafes in Melbourne

The Food

The cafe strikes a happy balance between established Melbourne favourites and something a little more interesting.

So there’s the obligatory Avo Smash ($22), though their’s comes with Halloumi amongst other things. There’s also an Acai Bowl ($19), rich with Peanut Butter and Chia as well as Strawberries and Coconut Yoghurt.

But the Waffle Benedict (21) is a definitive left-field move. It’s a Sweet Potato & Ricotta Waffle loaded with Maple Bacon, Poached Eggs, Dried Corn & Sriracha Mayo. Similarly, the Popcorn Tacos ($22) featuring Cauliflower Popcorn, Pomegranate, Charred Corn and a Vegan Jalapeno Mayo along with other delights, is a genuinely appetising option for a plant-based diner.

Legacy Camberwell - Chicken Bao

Having said all that, when we last visited at lunch time, we found it impossible to past the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Bao ($23). 3 pillowy buns, fat with fragrant, juicy Chicken, topped with Pickled Cabbage & zippy Sriracha Mayo. I had planned to take one home for later, but resistance was futile!

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On another occasion we tried the Soba Noodle Salad ($23). This proves to be a generous bowl of Soba, Edamame, Cabbage and aromatics given a winning umami kick by a Miso Dressing. This clean, light dish comes with either seared Salmon or Chicken. A healthy lunch has never been so easy to eat.

Another excellent local brunch spot worth trying is the Golden Child Cafe

Legacy Camberwell - Soba Noodles

The Drinks

There’s a limited list of Superfood Smoothies. These range from the virtuous Mr Brightside – Dragonfruit, Banana and Mango juice based – to the indulgent Royal Reece – Peanut Butter, Chocolate Sauce and more.

There are also regular Fruit Juices and a handful of Milkshakes.

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My coffee was short, smooth and punchy – just as I ordered it. In contrast, my companion’s Hot Chocolate was milky and sweet – as per her instructions. And we both admired the LEGACY stencil applied on cocoa powder on its froth.

Coffee is a serious business in the Victorian capital. Here are our top Coffee Shops in Melbourne.

Legacy Camberwell - Hot Chocolate - best cafes in Melbourne

Over All

Legacy Camberwell may have kicked open the door for other trendy cafes in the area to follow suit, but it’s still delivering quality fare.

With friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere and great brekkie and lunch offerings, its still worth lining up to get in on a Sunday morning.

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