Vorea Polaris

Vorea Polaris is a modern Australian cafe with a Mediterranean lean in the Polaris Town Centre at Bundoora, serving breakfast through dinner with evening trade later in the week. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables, so it works as a coffee-and-brunch stop when you have the dog in tow.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome at the outdoor patio seating only; the indoor dining room is off-limits under food-handling rules. Keep your dog leashed and settled beside the table. Staff are generally accommodating, but bring your own water bowl and treats rather than relying on the venue to supply them. Outdoor tables are limited, so booking one ahead is worth it for weekend brunch.

Pepsi: the patio looks over the plaza, so there is plenty to watch. Ask for a corner table and we both relax.

The menu

Reviewers rate it for hearty breakfasts, Mediterranean-style lunches, freshly grilled meats, steak sandwiches, handcrafted desserts and specialty coffee, with generous portions and an easy-going, family-friendly vibe. It is fully licensed, and wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating and parking are in place. Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch or dinner.

Getting there

The cafe sits at 2-6 Copernicus Crescent in the Polaris precinct, with ample free parking across the shopping centre including undercover bays. On public transport, the Route 86 tram stops nearby on Plenty Road.

Make a day of it

The Polaris walkways are paved and easy for a short post-brunch loop, and the Bundoora Park Fenced Dog Park is a short drive south for a proper off-lead run. The Norris Bank Reserve Fenced Dog Park is another secure option, and JIJI's at Macleod is the alternate cafe with the dog.

More options are on the Victoria dog-friendly cafes guide and the Bundoora destination page.