My mate in…: Recent Episodes
Dr Jasmine B. MacDonald
Good vibes only conversations with people from all over about their ‘go to’ places for a drink or food.
The focus isn’t on what is fanciest or most impressive. It’s on what people genuinely enjoy and so go back for more.
Have a listen and try out the places if you can.
Jaz will also create bonus episodes to share positive food and drink experiences as she adventures through life. Don’t expect a formal review. Just descriptions of cool places with yummy food and drinks.
In this Side Quest I ventured to Beneath Driver Lane, an underground bar at 3 Driver Lane in the Melbourne CBD. Highlights include:
- Live blues music
- Wide selection of whiskeys
- Candle-lit and lots of people around adding to the atmosphere
In this Side Quest I ventured to Belles, a Nashville inspired hot chicken diner, at 150 Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, Melbourne. Highlights include:
- Nashville style hot chicken and sides (mac and cheese, loaded fries).
- Sweet iced tea with rye
- Atmosphere
I catch up with my mate Ann in Wagga. Ann tells me about a good bar for after work drinks with friends called Tilly’s at 109 Baylis Street. Highlights include:
- Thursday afternoon happy hour
- Good for groups and has cocktail jugs and nibbles to share
- Live music
- Heated balcony
- Music bingo
I catch up with my mate Claudia in Sydney.
Claudia’s favourite café is called Pochito at 1021 Botany Rd, Mascot NSW 2020. Highlights include:
- Authentic Chilean food
- Friendly staff that speak Spanish and English
- Homely and cosy vibes
- Good mix of vegetarian and meat options
- Sweet and savoury options
Claudia also gives a shout out to a bakery called The Tart Sisters at Unit 117/119 Holden St, Ashfield NSW 2131. Highlights include:
- Takeaway sweet and savoury options
- Mostly vegetarian
- Friendly staff that make good selection recommendations
- Close to a park that has good spots for kids and doggos
I catch up with my mate Nahisha in Moonee Ponds, Melbourne.
Nahisha’s favourite local café is Olivia Spring Café at 637 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds, Vic. Highlights include:
- Vietnamese inspired food
- Everything is vegan
- Good breakfast and lunch options
- Family friendly
Nahisha also gives a shout out to Strange Lovers Wine Bar at 577 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds, Vic. Highlights include:
- Intimate vibe
- Indoor and outdoor seating
- Extensive wine list
- Cocktails
I catch up with my mate Tim in Northcote, Melbourne.
Tim's favourite local cafe is South Crescent at 31a South Cres, Northcote VIC 3070. Highlights include:
- coffee
- shakshuka
- people bringing their doggos.
Tim also gives a shout out to a local bar not far from South Crescent called Kelvin at 84 High St, Northcote VIC 3070. Highlights include:
- atmosphere
- cocktail list
- fire place in colder months.