North Carlton Canteen Princes Hill

I have never been disappointed with the coffee here, whether I am dining in or getting it to go, which is definitely a big plus. The menu offers all the classic options, as well as some rotating specials. I do wish they offered Açai bowls, as that would surely make me visit even more often. While the service can sometimes be a little off, considering how often I visit, I don't take it personally. The quality of the coffee and the convenience of the location make up for any shortcomings in service.

Located next to a laundromat on Lygon St., this modest cafe may not catch your attention at first glance while heading towards the city. However, it serves up some delicious food. We tried a couple of the daily specials - the chicken burger was decent but nothing extraordinary, while the crabmeat omelette was absolutely fantastic. The staff was friendly and the prices were reasonable.

I have recently become tired of the typical cafe/brunch spots with their third wave cafe trends like indoor plants, tattooed staff, and overpriced menu items. However, NCC is a refreshing change. This place is simple, honest, and affordable with fair serving sizes. I was drawn to NCC because of their rotating specials, although I didn't try them this time. The coffee is good, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed. NCC is now one of my favorite hidden gems in the inner north.

Great food (I'm addicted to their chicken salad) and friendly service. I'm always disappointed if I get there at 2.30ish and am told sorry the kitchen is closed.I forgive them due to excellent food and good music!

Four of us were looking for late morning eats. Husband suggested we try NCC. Ample parking along Pigdon St, especially towards Princes Park. We looked for a table inside but it was full. Staff suggested the courtyard out the back. Perfect. 3 decent size tables, 2 were under a huge market umbrella. Staff were awesome, coffees were spot on but the food was AMAZING! Most of us didn't read past the specials. Boys went the Sticky Date Pancakes. Beautifully presented. Not as sickly sweet as they sounded. I had the Duck Waffle, which I've renamed the Dwaffle. Confit Duck, 2 fried eggs, seeded mustard maple syrup on waffle. Now this was sweet, but it was also one of the most random satisfying flavour combinations I've ever tried. I shouldn't have poured so much maple. It's in the cheat meal category. Boys topped up with some Ham, Cheese Tomato Croissants. As we left we noticed the super sized, industrial strength patio heater overhead out the front.