C. H. James - Melbourne

After moving to Melbourne about 2 months ago, I’ve found myself returning to CH James over and over again. At first, I would have liked to say it was the coffee that was bringing me back almost daily. No matter what the circumstance, my large, strong flat white with soy is always poured to perfection (thanks for always remembering guys). The service is always prompt and accurate, even on their busiest mornings, which is usually when I make my way in for my first coffee of the day. After a couple of weeks and after way to many carrot cake muffins (although they’re probably still one of my favorite things to order on-the-go), I finally convinced myself to be treated to the full menu. CH James has such a unique variety of breakfast/lunch and though at times I was skeptical about reaching outside my ‘Chili Eggs’ order I began to really appreciate how much and how often the menu would change to keep their customers returning for new surprises. I recently went in to spend the afternoon working on my computer. After my meal had come out and after many, many coffees, my server came out to bring me, “something the chef was trying out for the menu.” He asked if I’d like to try them and to simply let them know what I thought of the sample. They were experimenting with caramelized figs. I’m not a huge fig eater, nor have I ever had them caramelized, but of course they were delicious Though, I wouldn’t say the experience, or rather, the many great experiences always had to do with their coffee and food. Most of my encounters at CH James have been with the lovely, attentive staff. I’ve literally seen some of them bend-over backwards to make sure everyone was being taken care of. I’ve seen their owner Theo, pause what looked to be very serious business meetings to make sure his staff and costumers were looked after and I’ve seen many, many of the Fairfield locals find a home in the courtyard where most of CHJ’s guest like to eat this time of year. This place is building a place of community and service and it’s been wonderful to watch it grow in my time here. While there are many café’s on Station Street that I love to wander in and out of, CH James continues to bring me back for more. I don’t often gush over food reviews, but when you find yourself welcomed into a community, you can’t help but share. Thanks to the CH James team! I’ll see you soon!

Deliciously creative food full of goodness, friendly staff with endless smiles, pleasant indoor outdoor environment with the yummiest tasting perfectly served espresso martinis!! Perfection on Station St! Highly recommended!!

Had a great meal in their lovely courtyard. The waffles caramelised bananas were delicious!

Fast friendly service and the food looks tastes amazing, and is reasonably priced.

C H James is named after Charles Henry James, a businessman and local member of the Legislative Council in the 1870s. He was known for his support of the Fairfield community, and even established the Station Street Horse tramway in the 1880s. The owner of CH James, Theo Krambias, was so inspired by Charles Henry James that he decided to name his café in his honor. Upon entering this beautifully designed venue, it is clear that a lot of thought has gone into its layout. There is a takeaway window for customers waiting on the side of the café, a spacious dining area inside, and a kitchen at the rear. Vintage agricultural tools adorn the walls, highlighting the venue's connection to the past. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the courtyard along the side, separated from the church next door, offers a shaded dining area with planter boxes nurturing an edible garden, fostering a sense of community. This would have been the type of place Charles Henry James would have frequented if he were still alive. I learned that Theo's parents actually tend to the outdoor plants daily, when they are not in Cyprus enjoying a European summer. CH James even sponsored its Head Chef and Barista to visit Cyprus earlier this year, where they explored the origins of their beloved haloumi cheese. Haloumi features prominently on the menu, which is simple yet packed with flavor and substance. Options include Smashed Avo with Panko egg and Dukkah spice, Eggs Benedict with pressed smoked hock on an English muffin with choron hollandaise, and Beetroot and Halloumi Fritters with almond dukkha. The coffee is supplied by Small Batch, and today I enjoyed the Golden Ticket blend in my Long black. The coffee was well-balanced, with hints of nougat and chocolate.