Charli Bean Café might be the new brew on the block, but there is more to this place than sensational coffee. Spanning the front corner of the entrance to the McCrae Shopping Centre facing the beach, this café has everyone buzzing. The secret ingredient is Luke, the passionate owner whose personality is both friendly and enthusiastic. Luke’s passion is not just reflected in his smile; it radiates through the entire café experience. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by a team that’s just as bubbly and excited as he is, ensuring every visit is filled with fun and good vibes. Whether you are in for a quick coffee or a lingering brunch, the warm, welcoming atmosphere is undeniable.
Mood-boosting vibe aside, of course, there’s the food. Oh, the food! The menu is a delicious mix of chef-crafted dishes that cover all your breakfast, brunch and lunch cravings. Fan favourites including Julie’s house granola, the egg and bacon slider, and the strawberry salad are just the beginning. For something heartier, dive into the buddha bowl or munch on Charli’s famous chippies. Luke makes it clear: “If we don’t make it ourselves, we don’t serve it.”
Feeling a little fancy? Charli Bean also has a tapas menu, a kid-friendly selection, and even options for your four-legged friends. Yes, you read it right: there is a menu for your pup. And if pizza is more your thing, you are in for a treat. Michael, the resident pizza chef, whips up divine wood-fired pizzas and might even throw in one of his legendary dances to kick off pizza hour.
The magic doesn’t stop there. The café’s in-house bakery turns out mouth-watering brioche and sourdough, to name a few delights, that’ll leave you craving to come back for more, while the selection at the juice bar and gelato and ice cream counter keep things cool and refreshing. As the sun sets, the café transforms, with a sparking electric atmosphere often accompanied by live music.
‘Local’ is a word close to Luke’s heart. A local himself, he says: “We welcome visitors passing through, but the essence of Charli Bean is a space and a place for the locals to feel welcome; their home away from home.” ‘Local’ also means supporting local producers with ingredients sourced locally, including locally roasted coffee from the talented team at Revolution Roasters.
Whether you are seated inside at your own table, enjoying one of the communal tables or outside soaking up the sea breeze, you’ll feel right at home. And for those on the go, there is even a coffee service window for your convenience.
Here’s a fun fact: Charli Bean isn’t just a cute name; it’s a tribute to Luke’s beloved Clydesdale horse, Charli, and his dog, Evie, whose nickname is Bean. So whether it’s brunch with the kiddos, lunch with friends or a quick coffee or juice fix on the run, Charli Bean Café is McCrae’s happy place, guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Opening hours: daily 7am-4pm; pizza 4-8pm; hours may vary seasonally, check website
Charli Bean Café
Shop 9, 739 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae
P: 0408 391 097
www.charlibean.com.au
FB: Charli Bean
INSTA: charli_bean_