Mildura has a large population of Italian migrants, and you know what that means… Fabulous food! On my quest to find a morning coffee that was up to my ‘snob-ish’ standards, a quick google search told me that Stefano’s was a must-eat while I was on my rural placement.

My limited student budget unfortunately didn’t allow me to try dinner at the award-winning restaurant, but thankfully, Stefano’s have a café / bakery on an adjacent street, which quickly became my place for a morning cappuccino.

 

On my last weekend in town, a fellow John Flynn Placement student and I had the pleasure of dining there for brunch. With the grape vines draping over the outdoor area, this restaurant could fit in many cities across the world. The cosy interior was welcoming on such a rainy morning, and the food certainly was up to the reputation.

 

Perusing the menu was a difficult feat, as though small, every dish sounded more tempting than the last. After sending the waitress away a number of times and a few changed decisions, I settled on the French toast with poached fruit and berry compote.

 

The house-baked bread was encased in cinnamon scented crust, nestled in a bed of silky marscapone. The soft texture of the poached pear contrasted with the crispiness of the toast, topped off with the delightful berry compote, adding a tart kick to balance the sweetness of the dish.

I was very good and resisted the temptation of the sweets on display, but they really did look amazing.

Coffee-wise, it was certainly up to my standards – full flavoured and perfect temperature and textured milk. I also couldn’t leave without buying some tasty treats from their range of preserves and dressings. The tomato and capsicum relish is delish!

Photos from: my camera

Stefano’s -Deakin Ave,  Mildura, Vic