Migrant Coffee

The founders of this West Footscray spot, Melodee Malazarte and Stacey Earsman, are both first-generation immigrants. This cafe is a nod to their heritage and home cuisines (they’re Filipino and Thai-Maori, respectively). It serves bagels with fillings inspired by Filipino flavours and with Thai and Maori influences.

While the menu changes, you’re likely to find the Bok Bok Manok (“manok” means “chicken” in Filipino), with a chicken salad of shredded breast, onion, carrot, mustard and pickles with tangy mayo and cheddar; the Pastrami Mami with Swiss cheese, cream cheese and atsara (pickled green papaya); a number with smashed avocado, coconut crumb and house pesto; and a few other options. If you’re just after a schmear, the house-made spreads include coconut jam, vegan cashew cream and a cream cheese made with honey, raisins and walnuts.

There’s also coffee by Coffee Supreme. Plus, a courtyard with the added enticement of all-day Mimosas and Bloody Marys, which set the stage for relaxed weekend hangs.