Inside hugely popular Brisbane northside cafe

With its homely vintage charm and sensational food, this cafe has become a Brisbane institution you have to try.

Nana & Da’s in Kedron has become somewhat of an institution on Brisbane’s northside.

Affectionately named after the grandparents who used to run the bakery that once resided in the glorious 100-year-old timber cottage, its moniker is charmingly befitting.

Just like a visit to grandma’s house (or perhaps the fictional cinematic versions), there are freshly baked choc-chip cookies waiting under a glass dome on the counter, alongside sweet muffins still in their tray, and jars of homemade jam, relish and granola.

A cabinet loaded with more timeless tastes such as banana bread, brownies and mini lemon yoghurt cakes, all baked on premises, makes for the type of treasure trove visiting grandchildren go silly for.

The charmingly homely Nana & Da's in Kedron. Picture: Mark Cranitch.

The fit-out is also every bit the Hollywoodised nana and da dream with eye-catching aqua wallpaper peppered with blossoming pink peonies a focal point, while provincial cross-back timber chairs and a dark wood cabinet lined with antique plates add vintage charm. There’s more seating outside under the cottage’s awning or under umbrellas, too – lovely on a warm winter’s day.

What you’re unlikely to find at your grandparent’s house, however, is the modern, vegan and gluten-free-friendly, all-day brunch menu.

Sure, there are classics like toasties, but these have been contemporised and pimped up with versions like a plant-based number oozing with dairy-free “cheese”, charred capsicum, mushrooms and meat-free “pepperoni”. And traditional pancakes take a healthier approach, made with banana and oats and finished with peanut butter, maple syrup, fruit, and gingernut and pecan ice cream.

The hash benedict ($22-$24) is a favourite, made so because of its mozzarella-stuffed crunchy, golden potato cakes, which cut to reveal fluffy spud and oozy, stringy cheese. Two runny centred poached eggs, torched salty smoked salmon (bacon is also available) and glistening hollandaise sauce in the deepest of yellows pile on top for a version nan would certainly be impressed by.

But it’s the breakfast gnocchi that my dining companion is reluctant to share ($22), falling in love with the pillowy potato dumplings, caramelised from time in the pan before a lacquering of basil-stained pesto cream seasoned by crisp rectangles of fried bacon and crowned with a poached egg. It’s a calorific, homely and hearty delight.

The pillowy soft breakfast gnocchi. Picture: Mark Cranitch.

Coffee is just as expertly made using Supreme beans and Norco milk for the likes of flat whites and cappuccinos; while alternate milks cover dietary requests. And if lactose is not an issue, a vanilla milkshake just like grandma used to make is a must.

There’s also a smoothie of the week, fresh juices, Australian-made sodas, tea, chai, batch brew and a handful of alcoholic options from beer to frozen watermelon margaritas.

With service echoing the cafe’s old-fashioned values, it’s apparent why Nana & Da’s has become a part of the local family.

NANA & DA’S

12 Homebush Rd, Kedron

0432 320 666

Open Mon-Fri 7am-1.30pm, Sat-Sun 7am-12.30pm

VERDICT – Scores out of 5

Food 4

Ambience 4

Service 4

Value 4

Overall 4