Strange Servant - Dingley Village, Victoria

Kalyan V.

Have been coming here with my family for 3-4 years now.

The vibe is really nice. They are always really welcoming and friendly. Staff service is excellent.

Food and coffee are top notch and it’s pretty reasonably priced.

Parking right outside or Woolies. Also has some tables outside.

Highly recommended.

John S.

Just around the corner in Dingley Village, one might say its a strangely hidden place, in a strange part of Melbourne. But there's nothing strange about the cafe "Strange Servant".
Rarely have I experienced an eatery with a commanding presence, vibe, attitude and quality as this.
Lets begin with Luke, the owner. He has a wonderful character disposition that emblazons the identity of the cafe as a high-service establishment for others to learn from. His Core Values speak for themselves, shown in a photo I've taken - "Strive for Success", "Appreciative", "Open Minded", "United to Serve" - educating staff and the public on just how a successful business should be run. The staff are a personification of these core values and it's quite refreshing coming from someone who promotes workplace civility. It goes beyond saying that feeling at home, contentment & feeling well looked after are primary emotions when eating here.
Next comes the food. As they promote Halal food, there is no pork on the premises - instead they use beef products to great applause and they define the quality that is presented here. My partner and I chose the signature breakfast called "D'Villager" (the common Big Breakfast) - but leaves the average big breakfast to dust. It is a well-balanced meal with beef salami, beef bacon, potato rosti, haloumi cheese, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, eggs on sourdough toast - and a drop of relish. With garnish it looks just as good as it tastes. This also reminds me of what we once called a 'decent' breakfast in the 90's.
The coffee. Luke has taken the time to reach a balance in his coffee, not to earthy and not too bland. This means he can serve the public majority with coffee they will immediately love. Again, another wonderful plus in the experience.
Next, the menu. A lot of care has been taken to preserve the inspiring nature of the options available yet keeping the number off foods tight and fitting to the cafe's character. As creative as some of the dishes are, the careful curation and balance is evident, leaving you satisfied even on a quick trip in.
Finally, the decor. A simple minimalistic approach with signature logos placed in optimal viewing positions signifies a design that makes a bold statement, instilling confidence and respect that all can truly experience a wonderful time here.
I must say that right under my nose I have driven past for many years, but not taken the time to eat here - my mistake.
If I could give this eatery an 11, I would. Inspiring, thoughtful, great service, excellent values and perfect food.
I hope others can learn and grow from such an institution, right here in humble Dingley.

Effie B.

Had lunch here on Friday with my daughter. The service was quick, the waiter was friendly, the food was fresh, and our meals were tasty.
We paid $60 for 2 people (meal and drink each).
The menu has a good variety too 😊

Tiana P.

I enjoyed the pulled pork eggs Benedict! My relative got the HCT focaccia.
The hot drinks are delicious and smooth!
Loved the atmosphere as it’s very cosy!
Normally busy cafe but staffs are very flexible!
Defiantly love the unique menus they have and would love to try their lunch menus next ! Appreciate their service !

A S.

Went here this morning with mates.

Ordered a mocha and a chicken burrito. Mocha was enjoyable, deep cocoa flavor and smooth taste, presented well too. Burrito was nice too, chicken was a tad bland but rest of the ingredients made up for it. Fresh vegetables and beans, sauces and sour cream were bright and tasty, guac had good flavor but it was a bit dull, could use a splash of acidity. Presentation was top notch.

Took around 15 minutes to arrive, 29 dollars for a burrito and a coffee is a bit steep to be honest.

Atmosphere and service were top tier, was welcomed and greeted. Staff were smiling and friendly. Cutlery was clean and undamaged, interior was tidy. Hygienic as far as I could tell. No visible stains or marks anywhere I looked. Chairs and tables were new and modern, massive windows spilling in fresh sunlight contributed heavily to the vibe.

Overall, 8.0/10 for Strange Servant.

Izzy

Stopped in here for brunch on a Friday. Café was very busy but service was good. Coffee was excellent and prices are reasonable. Only a single unisex toilet for the entire place which meant it was constantly occupied. Toilet was clean but rest of the room could have done with a freshen up but given how busy the place is that's not surprising. Will definitely come back for lunch when next in the area

Jivi S.

That breakfast burrito was so good. Very nice place. Staff xcellent.

Elle T.

we had a delicious brunch at this random cute corner cafe in the quiet Dingley village on Monday afternoon. we both chose a delectable dish of "Lamb Benny". it is a must! eggs alongside the slow cooked lamb and kale ontop of sourdough bread where it had absorb the juices was such a perfect combination of flavours.
we were greeted with smiles and amazing service by all staff from the start. loved the "check-in" midway during our meals. there was also no urgency of eat and dash as we stayed for a couple of hours. will come back to try ạ different meal next time.