An iconic western suburbs café with an upmarket tone that trades all day long.
With a 25-year history, Vans is anything but another café; the western suburbs institution frequented just as much for its cut-above all-day fare as for its people-watching potential. Roll up for breakfast, spy some primped Cottesloe locals, and go sweet with fluffy buttermilk pancakes, or savoury with creamy scrambled eggs sharpened by cheddar. Or, break out of the usual and hit the spicy Indonesian fried eggs with lap cheong that deliver just enough heat to kick-start your day with a reliably good coffee.
Whether it’s morning, at lunch or at dinner, service is consistently excellent, catering to crowds with friendly efficiency.
Whether it’s morning, at lunch or at dinner, when dishes such as slow-cooked beef short-rib and Sri Lankan-style beef curry are good shouts for their complexity and heartiness (not to mention the seafood), service is consistently excellent, catering to crowds with friendly efficiency. As the light fades, the drinks list comes into its own, with Spritzes, gins with house soda, Mojitos and Margaritas propping up plenty of bottled beer and a decidedly approachable wine list.
Walk-ins are accommodated with politeness, although demand can be high and there may be a wait, especially at breakfast. Be prepared to queue, or take your pick from the coffee window, which offers a range of takeaway plus fresh smoothies and juice, served with a smile.
