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Sir CharlesA-Worth Trying
121 Johnston St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia
· Restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Brunch restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (854 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative Asian-leaning brunch, standout cakes, friendly vibe; prices mid-high for brunch with a few service inconsistencies at busy times.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Sir Charles delivers exceptional food quality anchored by creative Benedict on roti and standout cakes that justify its reputation as a destination brunch spot. Warm, welcoming service and a bright, inviting setting create a reliably pleasant experience, though occasional consistency variation and drink service delays during peak periods prevent grade A elevation. The upward recent trend and loyal following confirm solid neighborhood standing.
Restaurant Summary
Set on Johnston Street in Fitzroy, Sir Charles delivers a bright, relaxed brunch room with plenty of seating and a gentle buzz. Service is often warm and welcoming, and the cake display lures you in. As one diner put it, "the share board fed three of us easily and the coffee was smooth." The cooking leans modern brunch with Asian-fusion twists: panko-crumbed eggs Benedict on roti, crispy chicken with thyme maple on waffles, and a katsu club sando with kewpie. Flavors are bold yet balanced, and portions are generous, especially the Celebrations Board. Cakes are a highlight—Russian Honey, Key lime, and seasonal slices that read rich but taste beautifully restrained. For families, it is very kid-friendly: there is a dedicated kids menu (egg on toast, waffle, nuggets and chips), plus familiar mains like burgers and pasta. Even cautious eaters can find simple options, though fusion specials may suit more adventurous teens.
At a Glance
- Creative Benedict on roti and standout cakes
- Generous portions and share boards
- Drink waits during peak periods
- Pricing for drinks can feel high
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- benedict_on_roti
- in-house_cake_program
- large_share_board
What People Love
- Innovative brunch with Asian accents
- Cakes that are balanced, not overly sweet
- Spacious, comfortable dining room
- Friendly service and smooth coffee
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (A$22-31 mains; desserts A$18-26) which may surprise casual diners
- Peak-time delays, especially for coffees and hot drinks
- A few past complaints about staff attitude at the counter; not a consistent theme
- Older isolated cleanliness and heating complaints; no recent pattern
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostA$38-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For conservative palates: Eggs Your Way (A$13) plus sides; Chicken Burger (A$25-28) without spicy mayo; Kids Waffle (A$14) if sharing dessert.
Perfect For
- Weekend brunch with friends
- Casual celebrations with share boards and cake
- Families seeking a kid-friendly cafe
- Cake lovers planning dessert-first outings
Location Insights
Area: Trendy inner-north pocket with creative retail, street art, and strong cafe culture attracting brunch crowds and casual dates.
Safety: Generally safe, lively foot traffic daytimes and evenings; typical urban awareness advised.
Nearby: Near Brunswick and Smith St strips, boutiques, bars, and galleries; strong weekend brunch demand.
FitzroyFitzroy is a lively and bohemian neighborhood famous for its street art, independent boutiques, and a diverse food scene ranging from casual cafes to innovative restaurants. The dining atmosphere is casual yet trendy, attracting a crowd interested in unique culinary experiences and socializing in a relaxed, artsy environment.
Johnston StreetJohnston Street is a bustling strip within Fitzroy known for its eclectic mix of cafes, bars, and eateries, offering a dynamic and youthful vibe. It is a hotspot for brunch and casual dining, popular among both residents and tourists.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–15:00
Tuesday07:00–15:00
Wednesday07:00–15:00
Thursday07:00–15:00
Friday07:00–15:00
Saturday08:00–15:30
Sunday08:00–15:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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