I think it is time that I write a few general reviews that provide some collective comments about a typical experience at several places I go to for lunch in and around Richmond.

Another heavy rotation lunch venue is the quaint Gypsey & Musquito. It shot to prominence about 4 years ago after a really good review in The Age’s Epicure (now Good Food).

At the time, the Australian theme and good focus on coffee (in an area of Bridge Road that is a bit hit and miss) meant it had both a novelty and quality factor.

It wasn’t until the last year that I began frequenting the cafe for lunch. The range for lunch is better than most similarly priced cafés in Richmond.

Sandwiches include a great ham off the bone and excellent chicken offering. The Angus beef box is my favourite with nice pastry and topped with mash. A little bit indulgent. There’s good quality salads that change regularly and Australian ingredients often feature as specials. The pastries and cakes, especially the lamington, are very good.

I know having spoken to the owner several times that staff turnover is an issue, and service can vary as a result.

Gypsey is a comfortable place to eat. The outdoor tables are great in nice weather and it is definitely worth a walk for takeaway coffee too.