cafe al nord

Shop 4/100 Simpson St, Ballarat North VIC 3350, Australia
+61 466 658 220
$$$ Cafe , Coffee shop , Food producer , Internet marketing service , Takeout restaurant , Restaurant
(105 Reviews)
Price Range $20–40

cafe al nord in Ballarat North stakes out a comfortable spot for those after a solid, no-fuss cafe experience with a bit more on offer than just coffee. Situated away from busy roads with ample parking, it offers a quieter atmosphere compared to many local spots, making it well suited for relaxed catch-ups or a casual lunch break without the usual roadside clutter.

The vibe here tends toward laid-back and unpretentious, with friendly service that locals appreciate. The space is roomy, so whether you’re popping in solo with a laptop or gathering with a small group, there’s room to settle in. It’s the sort of place where you don’t feel rushed—ideal if you’re looking to enjoy your coffee or meal at an easy pace.

Speaking of coffee, their flat white gets positive mentions for quality—a dependable option for those needing a decent caffeine hit. While there’s no elaborate specialty coffee scene, the drinks hold their own as part of the daily rhythm for locals.

The food menu fills out the offering beyond typical cafe fare, with breakfast and lunch plates that lean homey and generous in portion size. Options like the Big Breakfast and the Green Breakfast Salad cater well to varied tastes, with a noticeable willingness to accommodate vegetarians and those after gluten-free choices. The toasted sandwiches and chips come across as quick, tasty fixes that satisfy without fuss.

If you’re looking at mealtime, the Parama selection stands out with both classic and inventive spins—think spicy or tropical versions—offering something a bit different from standard cafe sausage sandwiches or baked eggs. The burger and wrap options further underline this place’s crossover between cafe comfort food and light casual dining, winning some local approval especially for vegetarian-friendly items like the paneer wrap.

Overall, cafe al nord fits best for locals or visitors who appreciate a straightforward spot with solid parking and a relaxed atmosphere tucked away from main road noise. It’s a good choice for weekday breakfast or lunch, especially if you want a quieter alternative to Ballarat’s busier cafes. While the service pace isn’t rushed, it’s balanced by friendly staff who make you feel welcome. Just be aware that card surcharges can catch you off guard.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
What they serve
Coffee
Healthy options
Prepared foods
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

105 Reviews
Paul C

25 Dec 2025

I had a very enjoyable dining experience here. Right from the get-go I was welcomed by friendly staff and made to feel like a valued customer. The toasted sandwich (with a small side of chips) I ordered hit my table in no time at all, and was then promptly devoured to satiate my grumbling belly (but also because it was just so darn nice to eat ). My Flat White Coffee was an absolute stunner too, and it had a creamy, full flavour that I have yet to taste elsewhere. It truly was a taste sensation . So make sure you take this unassuming cafè for taste test drive when you're in the mood for a coffee or a bite to eat.

Henrietta Farrelly-Barnett

22 Dec 2025

Coffee was quite nice. The poached eggs were undercooked and the baked eggs overcooked. Very nice service but slow (fine as we were not in a hurry). Good range of vegetarian options and gf available. 3% card surcharge is on the high side. Edit- despite the comment below that the surcharge is not 3% that is definitely what the sign on the EFTPOS terminal said.

Glen Crompton

05 Dec 2025

Great little out-of-the spot. Roomy, tons of parking and solid, well prepped food served in generous portions. Also pleasing is the relative lack of passing traffic and as the site is well back from the road, what traffic there is, is barely noticeable. Indeed it's refreshing to dine someplace that doesn't have a soundtrack passing Harleys, V8 Boganmobiles and endless doomf-doomf music blaring. My fish and chips was an honest serve and exactly what I expected. My dining partner's Eggs Bene was the same. If you're looking for delicious, satisfying food, in a quiet setting, this is definitely a place you should try.

Manu Guleria

26 Sep 2025

i have gone there with my family had a lovely vegetarian meal, they have plenty of vegetarian options and easy parking will recommend the paneer wrap and pan cakes

Lachlan Ryan

20 Sep 2025

Friendly staff, nice and quiet atmosphere, yummy coffee, servings a bit small for price but overall good

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