Charisma Workshop has opened up near A’beckett street in the CBD, past construction work and tucked away in an alleyway. There’s a few tables inside the cafe but if you do come in a huge group (perhaps >4), it will be a touch difficult to find a spot. Anywho, Charisma Workshop is run by the Ko family where Jonathon Ko combines his passion and expertise in patisseries and coffees and shares it with the world. Walking in, you’ll be greeted very warmly by the staff and you will definitely be hit in the face with the smell of coffee!
The decor was oh so cute!
Mr D got the hot mocha and boy oh boy was it sweet. It’s perfect for those who don’t want a straight up coffee or a hot chocolate and this is the perfect in between. The coffee was awesome sauce and combined with the dark chocolate, it was heavenly.
Charisma Hot Mocha – $5
Veneziano estate coffee with callebaut milk and dark chocolate
I got the syphon coffee and it was my first ever (cherry popped!) and it was a subtle taste and you’re given a glass of sparkling water so you can experience the taste over and over again. Just remember to swirl it before you pour it in. A good choice for those who think coffees are too intense, perhaps opt for the syphon coffee.
Syphon Coffee – $5.50
Seasonal veneziano single origin coffee
The big breakfast was well, BIG! Great for those who have a big appetite, the dish itself was flavourful.
Charisma Big Breakfast – $21
Poached eggs, bacon, chorizo, mushroom, roasted tomato, wilted spinach & sourdough
I got the ratatouille baked eggs and was slightly disappointed when I saw it. It was teeny tiny. However, that was the only thing that was disappointing. The dish itself was yummy but was a touch salty due to the haloumi. The polenta chips on the other hand required a touch more salt.
Ratatouille Baked Egg with Polenta Chips – $16
Mix grilled veggies & egg swerved with homemade napoli sauce, haloumi and polenta chips
For dessert we got the rose and the Jasmine pillow. The rose was very strong in rose flavour, quite overpowering but it was very fluffy and delish nonetheless. My favourite was the pillow with the hint of jasmine and the raspberry was was just AMAZEBALL!
La Vie En Rose – $10; Jasmine Raspberry Pillow – $9.90
Charisma Workshop is a great little hidden cafe with amazing desserts. The menu is quite extensive but if you don’t have time for a long lunch, drop by for coffee and sweets because it’s really worth it.
Disclaimer: I was honoured to be invited to dine by Charisma Workshop and all opinions expressed are my own.
3 Frederick Way, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: 03 8592 4914
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