Eleventh Commandment

Eleventh Commandment has set the Collingwood brunch scene ablaze with its courtyard jungle, bold use of mosaic tiles and an eclectic all-day menu. Located at 134 Johnston Street, the new eatery opened its doors to a brunch-deprived Melbourne populace in early November. Milk Bar stopped by one busy Saturday morning and, over a couple of soy flat whites, fell in love with the Mediterranean-meets-Asian style cafe.

Upon reflecting on 2020 and all the uncertainty that ensued, co-owner Galpie Wieland is right to surmise that it’s been a ‘weird year’. ‘During lockdown, a lot of people lost their jobs. I went from working seven days a week to essentially not working at all. But it also gave me a lot of time to think about the things I always wanted to do, but was too busy for – like opening this cafe,’ comments Wieland.

Wieland’s roots lie in Amsterdam, and after finding his feet in Melbourne, his extensive culinary experience has taken him to such venues as Sons of Mischief in Highett, Plain Sailing in Elwood, Street Talk Espresso in Armadale and Wolf and Hound Cafe in Flemington.

With his wealth of industry knowledge, Wieland, and co-owner Zeb Marshall, have crafted a mouth-watering menu that will transport you to foodie capitals of the world. Our favourite breakfast item is the trio of bao buns stuffed with folded eggs, braised mushrooms, crunchy apple slaw, avocado salsa, lime and coriander yoghurt. For someone who enjoys a simple breakfast staple of poached eggs on toast, this option was balanced, not too heavy, and delectable.

Other mainstays include the likes of a lunchtime falafel bowl packed with black bean and edamame salad, beetroot chips, house-made baba ghanoush and za’atar pita, all topped with pickled veggies. For lovers of sweet, feast on a serving of banana hotcakes topped with fresh fruit, Canadian maple syrup, ginger crumble and cinnamon mascarpone.

The vibe of Eleventh Commandment is overwhelmingly chill and friendly, largely due to Wieland’s laid-back attitude and charm. Step inside the bright Mediterranean-style courtyard (that can be accessed via an alleyway on Sackville Street) and admire the greenery put together by Jenna Holmes (founder and creative director of Plant Mama, a Collingwood-based design agency).

Eleventh Commandment is founded on the principle of doing things local. Publique Bakery at the Preston Market supply the bread, Inglewood Coffee Roasters in Coburg supply the caffeine, and on some nights during the week, the venue is home to private Pasta Club dining events.

When asked ‘What is the eleventh commandment?’, Wieland pointed to the wall: thou shall not drink bad coffee.

Of course, we completely agree. So, head on down to Eleventh Commandment, pat cafe doggo Hazel and enjoy a brunch that warms the heart.

Eleventh Commandment
134 Johnston Street, Collingwood, 3066
Open 7 days, 7am to 4pm
eleventhcommandment.com.au