If you can get a seat at Ripe it is one of the best cafes around. I would definitely recommend booking in advance and trying to request an indoor table, but this is sometimes impossible as this little gem is so very busy! The baguettes are second to none with simple but effective combinations of antipasto, meats and delicious cheeses. The lunch menu changes regularly depending on seasonal availability of produce so you're guaranteed to never get bored with the food. The coffees are heavenly and the lindt hot chocolates are unsurpassed - especially the orange one!
This place is awesome, but don't expect to be able to walk in and get a seat!

Approximate cost: $9 - $18

My Partner and i try to get up to Ripe atleast one weekend a month to have one of the amazing baguettes on their menu. Friendy staff and awesome real Lindt Hot Chocolates are good enough to warm the cockles of anyone's heart. I recommend the Number 8 baguette with Brie Cheese, Quince Paste and Prosciutto. Yum! Be sure and make a booking if you're heading up on the weekend because although they are very accommodating it is a rather quaint (small) venue and you dont want to miss out. Do yourselves a favour and Bypass Miss Marples and head to Ripe which is right Next Door :)

Approximate cost: $10

Every time I go there, it is just a wonderful foodie experience. They have such a variety of meals and drinks available. You can pop in for a meal, a snack or just a drink. It is such a popular place that it is best to book ahead but they do their best to seat all people even if you don't have a booking. A great place for that special occasion or that relaxed brunch. Good prices too!

Ripe is a real find in the Dandenongs. It's hard to find but look for the old teapot shop and you'll find Ripe next to it. They have a small gourmet deli and pantry section in the front promoting mainly local produce (similar to what you find in the Yarra Valley). The rear of the premises is the rustic cafe and includes a covered verandah surrounded by the temperate rainforest. The food is real comfort food of high quality. I've been there for brunch a few times now - freerange eggs and lots of great dishes to choose from. The cakes and coffee are also really good. It's a good place go with friends or to escape to with a book. Enjoy!

Delicious menu, great coffee (no extra costs for soy milk for a change!!) and mouthwatering Lindt hot chocolates!! What more can you ask for? Service is friendly and definitely a good place to relax before a wedding in the hills!!

Fantastic food, DELICIOUS hot chocolates and a great place to take kids. They have an undercover section out the back with big communal tables and lots of toys and room for kids to play. Our mothers group meet there all the time.

Approximate cost: $18

Comfortable and with excellent menu, good wine. Reliable. I have been there on four separate occasions with both family and overseas visitors and all were enthusiastic. Excellent spot for a coffee before a wedding in the hills. I liked the deck which was great when we were accompanied by children.

I went with a friend for lunch - they have a delicious range of baguettes, and I chose the smoked chicken, brie and spicey cranberry chutney one. It took quite a long time for our meal to come out of the kitchen (the people who ordered 10minutes after us, and ordered hot food e.g. pastas, actually got their food really fast and had almost finished before we got our baguettes) When they did come out, the waitress was very polite and thanked us for our patience. The baguette was great value and so delicious.

I ended up going back on my own in the afternoon for some cake and hot chocolate. They have delicious Lindt hot chocolate. They were happy for me to sit at the table and read my book - didn't disturb me too much, but made sure I had everything I wanted.

Approximate cost: $8

I LOVE this place I have dined there at least a dozen times and the service and food have never disappointed.
They have as well as other tables 1 communal table where you can sit with others which can very interesting talking to different people

the best service and genuinely friendly staff. A Welcome change. Also the food is always fresh and the servings are hearty. Wonderful to visit in any season

Approximate cost: $24