St Ali has just about everything I want in a cafe – the abundance of wood, flow of light and disorder. The first thing that hits you is the resinous yet delicate aroma of frenshly roasted and ground coffee. They offer their house blend and also the special coffee of the day. Clover machine too if you like a delicious cup of brewed coffee. Food is rustic cafe style with a hint of Middle East and Mediterranean.

Last time I had some great sardines on toast that were well spiced. An air dried beef salad was another winner. A French toast (sourdough) with mascapone cheese was so well done that sharing seemed difficult. I wonder why they dont do it the French toast anymore. 

Coffee last weekend was ok only. Used to be excellent. Although I can’t judge on one coffee, there has been a change of owner and the usual barista was in the Australian Barista Competition in Gold Coast. I am sure there are still some excellent baristas on the job though.  The past owner has opend Brother Baba Budan on Little Bourke St and is planning another cafe named 7 Beans not far away.