Machine

My English mate Vanessa always refers to this cafe as Laundry. Don't know why that's interesting, but it is a unique concept in a cafe I guess; wash your dirty clothes and get a caffeine hit simultaneously.

I admit to being a semi-regular patron at this place. I really like the eggs, the coffee's acceptable, but most of all - there's a great safe outdoor space for feral toddlers to run around while I savour my breakfast and attempt to scan the newspapers.

Food is the best feature at this joint - and breakfast is the only meal worth having here. They do it really well. Eggs done any way, with all the best side orders you could imagine (eg grilled haloumi, smoked salmon, mushies, great hollandaise, sauted spinach with caramelised onions..you get the drift). Generous serves but not silly-sized; good toast; season-appropriate fruit and cereal dishes (hearty porridges in winter/ fruity granola in summer).

Coffee's only average. Not horrible, but not brilliant. I don't know whether it's the blend, but it's a bit bitter for me. And the lattes often miss the mark. Then again, my cafe-savvy Melbourne-based sister (a long machiatto) says they made her the best coffee she had in Hobart last time....

Service is friendly. I guess I'm erring on being in the wrong demographic profile for their aimed custom (being a hassled housewife and all) but I am still treated with a happy smile, snappy banter and genuine service. Keep in mind that I avoid peak busy times, so cannot vouch for consistent service then.

The ambience is good. The music's too loud for me when seated inside, but outside it's pleasant if the sun's out. It's a pretty mixed customer in there for breakfast; tourists to uni students to the pram brigade. Not a lot of suits, but it's probably too casual for a business breakfast. The tables are close as well, and not ideal for private conversation. In all, a bussling busy cafe with a vibrant mix of customers.

As previously noted, the big plus this place has is it's location in Salamanca Square right next to the giant chess set. This provides much distraction and entertainment for kids of all ages, which is a bonus. You are 50+ metres from a road and potential hazards for small children. Booster seats are available for children. The staff are also happy to provide doggy-chinos for pampered hairy friends, which I love.

I am yet to see anyone actually laundering at Machine. I kind of wish they'd move on from that particular theme and get rid of the washing machines and dryers; replace them with a carpeted couch seating area with a more relaxed feel.

Rated 7/10
Machine Cafe, Salamanca Square, Hobart