Francis Winifred

Francis Winifred is the neighbourhood brunch spot for Oak Park, a short walk from the Craigieburn line station and right off the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail, and it has a reputation as one of the best dog-watching cafes in the area.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating at the front of the cafe, and regulars report staff happily letting well-behaved dogs inside too when it is quiet. Water bowls are generally out for visiting dogs. Keep your dog on a lead and clear of the service path, since tables fill fast.

Known for. Turkish eggs, ham hock bene and baked eggs headline the menu, alongside Allpress espresso. It is popular with runners and cyclists coming off the creek trail, so there is usually a dog or two already parked outside.

Getting there. The cafe is on Winifred St, a short walk from Oak Park station on the Craigieburn line. Free street parking is available on Winifred St and the surrounding streets, though it fills up on weekend mornings.

Nearby with the dogs. JP Fawkner Reserve's off-leash area is close by for a run before or after coffee, and the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail starts almost at the door.

When to go. Weekday mornings are calmer if your dog does not love crowds. Sunday mornings get busy, so arrive early or expect a wait for an outdoor table.

Sources

• Francis Winifred | Broadsheet · broadsheet.com.au
• Francis Winifred - Melbourne Restaurants - Tripadvisor · tripadvisor.com.au
• Francis Winifred | Oak Park VIC - Facebook · facebook.com
• Allpress Espresso on Instagram: Francis Winifred · instagram.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.