GavanM

Cafe blac has become a bit of a favourite with my family, even the 'olds' who especially like the half-price breakfasts on Tuesdays. I was treated to a late breakfast for a recent birthday and I certainly have no complaints about the food, the coffee (always critical) or the service. But what I did not like at all were the video screens that were playing popular music shows with the volume almost completely turned down. There were two screens which meant that from my seat I could not avoid them. I was completely distracted and could not relax - they drove me nuts. Compared other cafes where they have music only and great music that seems to create a fabulous vibe - this was disappointing.

We were looking to make our step up to a high quality front-loading, water and energy efficient washing machine. Elite Appliances in Carlton were close to work so offered a good opportunity to browse and get advice. As is oftern the case with us, the decision took some time and involved a bit snooping around (mostly on the web) and getting word-of-mouth advice from friends and relations. We eventually decided on a Miele but once made the the process of purchase, payment, delivery and installation were handled very efficiently by Elite. It was an almost faultless process that was characterised by accurate estimated times and clear communication channels. No problems at all since.

This is a very, very special place. As a double bass player for more than 35 years I had spent many years without adequate support for my instrument and my playing prior to Ben Puglisi establishing his business. The bass may well be one of the most personal, idiosynchratic and confounding instruments to play. They are big and wooden, they improve with age but as this is because the wood thins it means they crack. Doors, low stairs, dark hallways are all traps for tired bass players returning home after a late gig. Knocks, bumps, scratches and dislodged bridges mean that a trusted atelier is essential. Ben's shop has photographs of every customer with their bass. It is pretty exciting to see your picture on the wall with some of the great players from around the world. One thing that Ben does when you first come to the shop is to get you play so he can get a sense of your style, your tone and your feel for your instrument. After quite a few new sets of strings, a number of new bridges and the checking of the cracks, I suppose I am a bit of regular but it is still a blast when you turn up after about a year and they say 'Hi, Gavan' as soon as you walk in the door. I recently purchased my dream bass amp from Atelier Puglisi - an Acoustic Image Coda R Series III. It is absolutely fantastic but my feeling is that the amp is imbued with the ethos of the shop - it is just perfect for my double bass.

I was not initially thinking I could rate Roundstone as I was part of a band engaged for a 50th birthday function. However, after having arrived early to set up the gear, I was seduced by the setting, which is without doubt spectacular, and the friendly atmosphere, so before much longer I was sampling the red wines. I decided on the mixed 4 to take home for the family for further tasting and assesment - a task we are still looking forward to with anticipation. It was clear that this was the perfect venue for a days outing with the 'olds' and one that I am keen for them to experience while there is still some green in the grass. They serve excellent food, locally brewed beers and have a wood-fired oven that adds that special something to the freshly cooked breads and pizzas.

We were out on a Sunday with the 'olds' looking for a nice place for afternoon tea. Our first choise was closed for renovations and were at a bit of loss until we remembered Monsalvat. We knew the area well from decades ago when we rode horses in the area, so it was nice to return and relive the space with all that was the same and all that had changed. But, enough of the area, what about the Cafe? It is a great setting with excellent parking and easy walking for those of more mature age. Access to the Cafe is not contingent upon paying access to the other facilities like the art gallery which makes it very welcoming. There were both inside and outside tables but all areas had good views and there was a marvellous sense of character in the presentation. It had a an earthy, natural vibe. We had coffee and cake - both were lovely but the cakes were certainly on the rich side and the portions were not meagre. It was a great afternoon.