Monk Bodhi Dharma

Tucked down a rear Balaclava laneway in a converted garage, Monk Bodhi Dharma pairs precision espresso with inventive plant-based dining. Six tables, a shared communal bench, and zero pretension. Espresso regulars swear by the rotating single origins and rich pour-overs, while the signature dirty chai gets an unmistakable boost from fresh house-made almond milk. In the kitchen, the focus stays squarely on wholesome, deeply savory cooking—think hearty umami mushrooms spooned over polenta bread with house vegan almond feta, or golden zucchini hotcakes balanced with cooling coconut cream. Exceptionally coeliac-friendly, entirely vegetarian, and relaxed by design, it leaves the noisy street far behind and simply lets the food speak for itself.