A Thoughtful Transition

When Vincent Gao stepped away from his namesake café in late 2016, many feared the Carlton favourite might lose its essence. Since taking the reins, Lily Tran has eased those concerns with a gentle, thoughtful touch.

Balancing Tradition and Heritage

Rather than overhaul the menu, Tran has opted for subtle updates that reflect her Vietnamese heritage while preserving the café’s core offerings. Traditional favourites like smashed avocado remain, now complemented by new dishes such as Auntie Lily’s Vietnamese Homemade Springrolls and the V-DOG’s Sweet and Savoury Sensation—a creative mix of black-rice pudding with coconut milk, pork skewers paired with seasonal fruit, crispy prawns, and barbecue sauce.

Coffee That Holds Its Own

The coffee continues to impress, roasted by Code Black to Vincent the Dog’s specific profile. Head barista Will Eyers prefers a lighter roast, resulting in a tart, sweet, and sour flavour ideal for milk-based drinks. A rotating selection of single-origin coffees is also available.

Compact Takeaway and Pastry Range

For takeaway, there’s a compact but well-curated selection, including both sweet and savoury bagels and a range of pastries sourced from Cobb Lane.

A Bright and Minimalist Space

Set in a former bottle shop, the Drummond Street location features a bright, minimalist interior dominated by a large communal table. Along the corridors, shelves display an ever-changing collection of coffee-related products and accessories.

Relaxed Outdoor Vibes

Outside, a cozy seating area with white tables and AstroTurf offers a pleasant spot to enjoy your order.