Two Birds One Stone generated plenty of buzz when it first opened, as it came the team who started up ever-busy Three Bags Full and also Liar Liar in Hawthorn. It’s been four years, but Two Birds One Stone is still as popular as ever. The square-shaped cafe is neatly broken up into two sections: the dining area, and the counter and coffee bar. A central communal table is surrounded by smaller tables on one side, and cosy alcove seating on the other. A frontage made completely of glass, and white tiles and suspended plants on the walls makes it hard to believe this was once just a concrete box.

The day’s special of confit duck comes with a grain salad, king oyster mushrooms and beetroot puree. The duck leg is tasty, the skin is crispy, and the tangy beetroot pimps up the flavours. A hearty lunch dish that’s perfect for those after a more protein-filled meal.

We also order the brioche, which has a savoury spin. A tumble of sauteed mushrooms is laid over the toasted brioche together with whipped goats cheese cream and poached eggs. Roasted pine nuts are added in for extra bite. It’s a satisfying vegetarian option for brunch.

For sweetness there’s the ricotta pancakes drizzled with berry compote and topped with quenelle of rich vanilla mascarpone and crunchy pistachios. Although they seem to lack a little something, the pancakes are done well, and the scattering of berries is a refreshing addition.

There’s a good selection of dishes at Two Birds One Stone, and even if you’re not hungry, the coffee menu makes it worth popping in.

Disclaimer: I was invited to Two Birds One Stone as a guest, however, opinions expressed here are purely my own, and are based on my experience at the time

Two Birds One Stone
12 Claremont St
South Yarra, VIC, 3141
(03) 9827 1228
www.twobirdsonestonecafe.com.au/