Another weekend of incredible spring weather greeted us as we headed towards water to find a spot for lunch. We had been thinking of anywhere near the beach, outside, with fresh and light dishes available. As we turned off Grange Road a bright idea entered my head!

The Stables of Como appeared and the choice was clear on such a perfect day. Strolling around the grounds of Como House while waiting for a table, along with several other groups, was more than pleasant. Eventually the sun swayed us to sit down close by and wait. It was only about half an hour at the height of lunch service, and gave us a nice chance to wander around.

The Stables is a sibling of Friends of Mine and Porgie + Mrs Jones. It has its own personality and the vibe is similar to the surrounds of Como House with quite a well dressed and well-to-do crowd. As beautiful as the day was, direct sunlight was quite hot so a table inside was offered and we gladly accepted.

Roasted cauliflower salad

The menu is broad with good choices for both breakfast and lunch. Catching my eye immediately was the Lyonnaise Salad. My memories of salads in Lyon when travelling are still vivid ten years on and I was hoping for something traditional with a twist. I probably should have read the menu better because the twists were quite accentuated; not so much like a roller-coaster, more like a winding road in the Dandenongs.

It was still nice to eat and the smoked duck pancetta was one good reason to try it. Along with the duck were white anchovies, several leaves, broad beans, lardons, potato crisps for texture, and of course a poached egg as is required for a salade Lyonnaise. I would love for it to be served with the egg at the bottom of a bowl, rather than at the top of a plate, so the yolk could instantly mingle with the dressing, and for more lettuce to be used.

Salad Lyonnaise

Catherine tried the “roasted cauliflower, chickpea, organic quinoa + feta, with nuts, seeds, and spices”. It was utterly delicious and when she failed to finish I took over! Both salads were very good servings. This one was really quite inspired and a dish I’ll be going back for again. Everything worked together and was in balance.

I’ve been to The Stables a few times and the classics for breakfast like smashed avocado are great. One dish that caught our eye was the tart with an heirloom tomato salad that was very popular and bursting with brightness on the plate. Definitely a go-to dish.

It’s a comfortable place to relax over a coffee or a wine, and the service is good. The Stables of Como is a fantastic cafe to check out, especially over the remainder of our spring and summer.