Sitting on the ground floor of Brunswick eco-friendly apartment complex the Commons is Steam Junkies. Owned and operated by husband and wife duo Martin and Yang Sun, this café has a stripped back look to the interior, but still generates a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s easy to get to, with the Upfield train line and adjoining bike path running right past it.
The menu takes its cues from traditional flavours and dishes of the owners’ Chinese heritage. The meals are just about as satisfying to look at as they are to eat with highlights including the chicken katsu wrap, the pampoenkoekies (South African pumpkin fritters) and the fried Szechuan pepper chicken sandwich with wasabi mayo.
Those after a caffeine hit can order Small Batch’s Candyman roast and Synesso Cyncra for an espresso, or go for a filter coffee which is prepared through a Kalita Wave drip. For non-coffee drinkers (or those who have had too much caffeine) there’s a selection of other tasty beverages on offer including Mörk hot chocolate, Uji matcha lattes and Melbourne favourite Prana Chai. Steam Junkies even make their own almond milk.