You would be forgiven for mistaking South of Johnston (SoJo) as just another warehouse with its  unassuming location on Oxford Street and inconspicious black on black signage. But given a more thorough examiniation you’ll discover a decadent Collingwood café.

It’s the telltale outdoor seating area, carefully camoflaged by citrus trees planted in wooden crate boxes that makes you realise you’ve arrived at SoJo. Venture inside via the airtight entrance room and be greeted with cheery tulips and soft lighting, leaving the cold and the worries of the world behind. Open the next door and step into a blissfully warm and cosy inner city retreat.

An abundance of black feature walls, muted lighting and a roaring wood fireplace helps to shrink the expansive space. Take your pick with several seating options to choose from. You can laze near the fireplace on comfy couches or dine more upright in banquette seating lining the walls either side. There are also large colourful communal tables, an enclosed outdoor area for winter or the option of taking in some sun out the front.

Sparking much intrigue is an image of a tractor on the menu, which we’re told symbolises SoJo’s approach of sourcing the best quality produce from the land and smaller scale suppliers. They use Dench Bakers bread, homemade cakes from  Castlemaine, Supreme Coffee, Rainbow Chai and T2 teas.

The breakfast and brunch menu, boasting dishes such as poached eggs served on a chorizo sausage, kalamata olive and napoli ragu finished with hollandaise sauce, torn basil and sourdough (or gluten free) toast is sure to impress.

Attention to detail is everywhere and doesn’t go unappreciated. We could spend hours enjoying the ambiance, delicious food, sublime coffee and chai but alas the day outside awaits.

Where: 46 Oxford Street, Collingwood, Vic
Hours:  Mon- Sun 7.30am – 5.00pm (Kitchen closes at 3.30pm)
Phone: 03 9417 2741
Details: facebook.com/SouthOfJohnston