Peregrine Social Club – Perry’s for short – is a family-friendly cafe in the middle of Niddrie Quarry, once a source of basalt for paving Melbourne’s roads. The blue and white building welcomes you in with its jaunty umbrellas, friendly fit-out and shaded outdoor deck (which features a doggy drink station and “puppacinos”).
For hungry humans, the menu is a hit list of classics. Breakfast might call for the roasted portobello mushroom with goat’s cheese, and Perry’s signature wattleseed iced coffee. For dinner, their parma – traditional chicken or eggplant (easily made vegan) – is a standout.
Given the scarcity of local watering holes, the drinks offering is important. Moon Dog helped to make Perry’s Draught, a refreshing house brew available on tap. A rotating selection of craft beer tinnies also appear, alongside cocktails including Passionfruit Margs, Pomegranate Sours and Industry Beans Espresso Martinis.
The laid-back venue is by owners David Bartl, Jacob Bettio and Taylor (who together own Moonee Ponds beer hall Holmes Hall), along with Charlotte Rose and James Curby (co-owners of Perry’s, but not Holmes Hall).
