Pickles Milk Bar

Pickles is a snug spot with all the hallmarks of a classic milk bar. It’s got white subway tiles, exposed brick, burnt orange accents and original leadlight windows. Lollies, freshly baked cakes and a little pie warmer sit on the wooden counter, and in the morning the shop is filled with the smell of coffee and cinnamon rolls.

But it’s not your average milk bar – the menu is entirely plant based. Owner Sophie Young wanted to tap into the homey, inclusive environment of a local bakery, without serving food that’s made from animals.

You’ll find classics like dim sims, hot chips, hash browns and breakfast pies. Plus, house-baked sweets including lemon slice and choc-chip cookies. Yet the main focus is the vegan sandwiches. Standouts include the Polish schnitzel made with eggplant scallopini, and the gyros, which comes filled with crisp za’atar zucchini. Or, try the bolognaise-inspired ragu melt, with slow-cooked, umami-rich vegetables and soy protein used in place of ground meat. Each one is made with bread and bagels from Blanc Bakery, and gluten-free panini from Eat Cannoli.

Drinks include childhood favourites such as thick milkshakes of chocolate or miso caramel, and spiders made using any soda in the fridge. There’s also espresso, hot chocolates made with house ganache, Vietnamese iced coffee and a tea selection that includes Monk’s Chai. Furry patrons are not forgotten, with “puppacinos” and homemade dog biscuits also on offer.