Cafes

Skinny Boy Jim

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

21 Laura St, Aspendale VIC 3195, Australia $20–40
4.7
244 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Nestled in the heart of Aspendale at 21 Laura Street, Skinny Boy Jim is a charming café that masterfully blends the rustic warmth of a beloved local breakfast spot with the vibrant energy of a modern brunch hub. As soon as you step inside, the friendly vibe and inviting atmosphere envelop you, making it the perfect place to savor your mornings or unwind over a leisurely lunch.

Skinny Boy Jim’s cuisine leans into classic Australian café fare enriched with creative twists and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Kick off your day with the stellar Skinny Boy Breakky, featuring eggs cooked precisely to your liking, paired with three thoughtfully chosen sides atop hearty sourdough bread. For something simple yet satisfying, the Eggs on Toast on your choice of sourdough or rye offers a comforting breakfast staple executed with finesse.

Brunch enthusiasts will find the Aspendale Avo irresistible: smashed avocado complemented by creamy Meredith’s goat cheese, all served on crusty ciabatta, drizzled with balsamic and topped with a vibrant beetroot tzatziki. This dish perfectly balances freshness with indulgence, delivering a medley of textures and flavors that linger delightfully on the palate.

Lunch options continue Skinny Boy Jim’s commitment to bold, satisfying flavors. The Skinny Minis – a set of three mini tacos bursting with Mexican pulled poached chicken, salsa, and chipotle mayo – are a colorful and flavourful choice. Vegetarians will appreciate the housemade beans swap—a nod to inclusive dining without compromise. If you’re craving a classic, the Beef Burger dazzles with a juicy Angus beef patty, double American cheddar, fresh tomato, lettuce, and Skinny’s signature sauce, served alongside crisp chips and a pickle for a hearty meal.

The café also caters thoughtfully to younger guests with kid-friendly delights like the Housemade Waffles topped with Nutella, fresh strawberries, ice cream, and meringue crumble—making every bite a sweet, joyous experience. The Eggy Soldiers provide a nostalgic yet satisfying treat for little ones, rounding out a menu that appeals to all ages.

Beyond the menu, Skinny Boy Jim is praised for its stellar coffee, a highlight continuously celebrated by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking a perfectly timed double espresso or a long black to go, this café consistently delights with expertly crafted brews. Several customers have joyfully noted the warm, attentive service and the cozy environment, with comfortable indoor seating for around 30 guests, complemented by limited outdoor options. The accessible front entrance ensures everyone can enjoy this gem, while the licensed venue adds a relaxed touch with select wine and beer options.

Skinny Boy Jim’s atmosphere hums with authenticity—a small, hip café that feels both intimate and effortlessly cool. The little touches, from the attentive staff to the thoughtfully designed kid’s area in the back, all contribute to making every visit a memorable one. This is not just a place to eat and drink; it’s a spot to linger, connect, and indulge in simple yet expertly crafted pleasures.

Whether you're a local or just passing through Aspendale, Skinny Boy Jim is a café that invites you to slow down and savor the moment, surrounded by good food, great coffee, and genuine friendliness. It’s clear from the enthusiastic reviews that this spot isn’t just feeding bellies—it’s winning hearts.

03 Notes from regulars

244 notes — the real pulse of the room.

4.7
Based on 244 verified notes
5 202
4 42
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1 5
All Waffles Pulled Pork Options Bagels Egg And Bacon Roll Ruben Sandwich Avocado Toast Banana Bread Toasties Gluten Free Food Options Welcoming Staff
Ashleigh MacDonald.
2 month ago
Hip small cafe with great food and coffee. The waffles are awesome. Indoor seating for 30 people and limited outdoor seating. Friendly staff and good food and atmosphere. Wheelchair accessible front entrance. Also Licensed with limited wine and beer options.
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Peteys Travels.
3 month ago
Visited this cute coffee shop on visit to the area. Was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the breakfast menu and coffee. Would recommend the Bruschetta breakfast!! Will visit again soon.
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Naomi Wilding.
4 month ago
Great food, lovely staff and GREAT coffee, thank goodness! Will definitely be brunching here again soon
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Renee Das -nee Gray.
4 month ago
We are in Melbourne visiting family for a week and my fiancé who desires an excellent coffee (or to go in search of one) at the beginning of each day discovered Skinnyboyjim which has lived up to delight him daily. We started our week with breakkie on the weekend which was fab and each day since we’ve popped in for the double expression and takeaway long black that the staff have nailed the timing on. Thank you team for great service, super coffee and a delightful cosy atmosphere. Our pics sadly were of half eaten meals as we were so keen to dig in.
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Sheldon Mott.
5 month ago
Great little cafe. Reliably good coffee, good little back area for the kids and welcoming friendly staff
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Brod Asakura.
5 month ago
The coffee here is CONSISTENTLY good. And they do strong very well. But I digress, do yourself a favour, and try a bacon egg roll. I've had an unhealthy amount of bacon egg rolls in my time and these folk blow it out of the water. Don't delay. Try today.
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Harry Tan.
5 month ago
Great coffee, food and setting. Nice and chill vibes here with a friendly crew running the joint. Definitely worth checking out!
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James.
6 month ago
Fabulous local find. Exceptionally warm, welcoming & professional service from a young, relaxed crew. Great coffee Great value re menu pricing. Lovely start to a Sunday morning.
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday 06:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Tuesday 06:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Wednesday 06:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Thursday (today) 06:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Friday 06:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Saturday 07:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Sunday 07:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Finding the door

21 Laura St, Aspendale VIC 3195, Australia

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

From the business
  • Identifies as women-owned
Service options
  • Outdoor seating
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • No Delivery
Highlights
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Great tea selection
Popular for
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Solo dining
  • Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Healthy options
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
Dining options
  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
Amenities
  • Bar onsite
  • Gender-neutral restroom
  • Restroom
  • Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy
Crowd
  • Family-friendly
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Transgender safespace
Planning
  • Accepts reservations
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
Children
  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu
Parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Parking
Pets
  • Dogs allowed
  • Dogs allowed inside
  • Dogs allowed outside
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