It is obvious within minutes of walking into The Commoner that it is run by people who are passionate about fresh produce and good cooking. Tables are decorated with seasonal products like granny smith apples, lemons or pumpkins, condiments come housed in tiny baking tins and the walls are hung with colourful ceramic cookware.
Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and are always happy to explain the Middle Eastern-influenced menu to customers. After all, the food here is excellent, and they know it.There is only a slim window of opportunity for breakfast at The Commoner, from 10am to 12pm, and it is well worth making the effort to get there on time. Choices range from fresh seasonal fruit and boiled eggs with toast soldiers, to fried gingerbread with caramelised banana and baked eggs with sage, chilli and house-made yoghurt. A regular feature, and personal favourite, is the crispy Arabic pancake with citrus salad and pomegranate molasses.
Coffee at The Commoner is reliably good and the chai tea on offer is the real deal. If you’re interested in taking breakfast to the next level, there is also an interesting and well-considered wine list.
The Commoner’s breakfast and lunch trade is bustling on the weekend, so come in during the week if you prefer to linger. The space is open, airy and inviting, with banquette seats or a large communal table in the sun. There is also a cosy rear courtyard, where you’d never know you were just metres away from the bustle of Brunswick Street.