Rathdowne Village is particularly enticing this time of year. Its always quaint appearance is enhanced when framed by autumnal trees, and sitting at one of the curbside tables of North Cafeteria, fallen leaves scattered around my shoes and a well-crafted coffee in hand, I remember exactly why I love Melbourne.

North is Rathdowne street's standout cafe, with a brunch menu that's worth eating your way through. It's hard to go past the BRAT- a toasted bagel stuffed with bacon, roquette, avocado and tomato. But then there's the French toast, breakfast tortilla, or the childishly appealing Champions Breakfast of boiled eggs with soldiers and tomato relish.

My most recent visit to North was on a quiet afternoon, post-lunch rush. It's the perfect time for a quiet coffee or late lunch, when you don't have to work around all the other North devotees. You can sit wherever you like, outside in the fresh air, on the cushioned bench against the mural wall, or nestled into one of the Tulip chairs. It's a contrast to the weekend buzz when folks are scrambling to get a seat in this well-loved cafe. But whether its brimming with customers or in a peaceful afternoon lull, North will please whatever patron steps through its door.