A Boy Named Sue - St Albans

Born and bred in the area, I've always been a big fan and generous promoter of A Boy named Sue, loving the food and the atmosphere, taking friends and family there at every opportunity. BUT I vow never to return after observing, listening to and then asking around about how the Management treat their young staff. Most of whom are just starting out in hospitality and enthusiastically trying their best but whose good will and naivety is totally taken advantage of. The last head chef was a gem it seems and gave tremendous support, encouragement and feedback to staff...but since he left.... Well those two blokes who own the place need to take a good look at themselves and how they run a business. Perhaps the ATO or 'Fair work' should do some investigating to shake them up a bit.

I came here a few years ago and it was quite good. But have to say I wasn't impressed this Market Saturday. So let me spell it out. As a hippy myself I get it. But - this place needs some serious boundaries and pathways. I had someone with me who is physically challenged. Finding the right path to take isn't obvious which meant it was awkward to get into ABNS. On the day we went there was no almond milk, no skinny milk, no eftpos (cash only) and no gluten free. WTF? One bottle of water between 5? Ahhh don't think so. Cups not clean. The very young waiter had no idea. His intentions were good but truly fumbled his way through servicing us. I'm all for employing young people and locals but please give them at least basic hospitality training. This guy could hardly converse. The food was ho hum. Lamb pizza nice. My daughter ordered toast but looked like it was cooked over an open fire with pretty scrappy condiments. My daughter ate only 1/4 of her serve and gave up. Plus it was slightly burnt. My eggs were.....different. Stop trying to be too funky. Eggs and bread inside this glass jar with eggs, goat cheese blah blah blah. I'm not a fan of raw egg and that's how it was served. Had to keep asking for the correct cutlery, serviettes, etc. Tiring! Staff has no idea but we're trying their best. The little fire place outside is cute but when the wood is smoky - OMG - spoils a meal. Parking is good at the rear in particular. Not wheelchair friendly. But is Kid friendly. Dog friendly. Toilets clean. Dog friendly do feel free to post your dog pics at Cafes at Canines at Cafes. As this place is opposite the St Andrews market it attracts a certain demographic and I find it fascinating and fun. However, the food and service was well fellow standard unfortunately.

Perfect for a weekend lunch. Just across the road from the FAMOUS St Andrews Market. Do yourself a favour.

Early morning breakfast on one of the winter St Andrews market days. Got a table next to a lovely open fire and ordered breakfast and coffee. Coffee is good and the egg dish I ordered was in little glasses - called "suck egg" - it looked novel and was very filling. The 'hero' of the breakfast- excuse the Masterchef cliche - was the bacon. It is thick, it has maple syrup on it and it is worth having! A nice cafe with a nice view. Will definitely return. * If you are in a cycling group - this place would be an ideal place to stop and have breakfast.

Stopped by for brunch on the way to the footy at Kinglake not knowing what to expect. Could not have been more impressed with the food the coffee and the service on a busy Saturday opposite the market. The Suck Eggs are delicious and the coffee was very good. I urge you to give this restaurant a visit now.