The Foreigner

Semir Elamazi (Dosage, Second Wife) likes the idea of hidden cafes. His first cafe Hyde n Seek (since sold) was hidden away in the streets of Ashwood. He’s brought a similar vibe to Ivanhoe with The Foreigner.

Most of the interior is semi-exposed brick, except for a feature wall adorned with a colourful world map by Melbourne artist Danielle Weber.

The global theme continues on the menu, where many items highlight Elamazi’s Middle Eastern background. The popular Breakfast HSP is Elamazi’s take on the halal snack pack. It features pulled lamb, rosemary and thyme potatoes, toasted soldiers and poached eggs, all drizzled with garlic, smoky barbeque and chilli sauce. At lunchtime, there’s Hump It Up, a camel burger with pickled carrot, radish, cucumber, coriander, mint, Kewpie mayo and Sriracha sauce.

Coffee comes from Industry Beans, and tea from Sassafras Tea Leaves. Fresh juices are made on site; and Proof is in the Pudding is responsible for the sweet treats in the counter cabinet.