Big Elma

Lovely oasis from snarling Nicholson St. Charming real people and food, it's always a delight.

Put some respect next to the name "Big Elma". Everything is delicious, the vibes are good, and the owners haven't gotten the memo about inflation - everything is very affordable. A cafe of the people, for the people. A cafe that is democracy manifest. Long may they prosper, and a pox on their competitors.

Had a delicious couple of coffees and the staff were super friendly, joined in our weekend quiz. Definitely coming back for food too!

Lovely local spot; incredibly friendly staff, great food/coffee and homey outdoor space. So happy to live close by! Dog friendly.

Great friendly staff witch great coffee and amazing selection of baked goods.
And the menu is amazing.
Thanks guys

The true heir to Ruby's, El and Em have created a wonderful and inviting cafe full of good coffee and good food. Not to be missed on a walk along the Merri Merri.

This place is my new fave! The coffee, the food, the vibe … love it all. No extra charge for plant based milk? ! So good! The owners and staff are super friendly and really went the extra mile to help me with my dietaries. Would recommend to all the burg locals and beyond!

I went to this Cafe for brunch after hearing good things about it from people I know. The staff are friendly and the place is well kept. The atmosphere is cozy and peaceful. I ordered an English Breakfast Tea and a Cheese and Tomato Toastie. The tea was served in a delicate porcelain china tea set. And the food on matching plates. The bench was comfortable and pleasing to the eye. The walls were painted in light colors giving a nice uplifting tone. Potted Plants were spread around the place in moderation. There were options for seating both indoors and out. The food was well put together, the toastie had melted cheese, tomato, caramelized onion and whole grain mustard. The sourdough bread was crunchy and thick, a lovely gold-brown color. There was soft jazz playing in the background as staff entertained customers with light banter. The prices were surprisingly affordable so I would highly recommend checking this place out for a morning or mid-day meal.

UPDATE

Sitting out in the courtyard, a warm sun overhead, mellowed out by laser light. Funky decor from wall to wall. Colourful chairs spread about. Classics tune the mood, for a cosy brunch. Plants such as succulents and citrus, potted neatly around the place, providing a more natural, inviting look. A lovely crisp Focaccia in front and kombucha to the side. Charming and attentive staff, overall great experience. Will be back again!

New favourite local! I popped into Big Elma on a friend's recommendation. So glad I did! The vintage decor and colours are so cute and you can tell they've really thought about every detail. We've now gone a few times and tried a few things on the menu. All of them have been fresh and delicious. The coffee is top notch (very important as my partner is very particular about his coffee). Oh and lots of vegetarian options for me which I'm grateful for!

Love this place…best French toast, properly soaked, mature staff and love the pink paint…good luck Big Elma!

I feel like businesses sometimes struggle up this end of coburg but i think this sweet place is sorely needed. Props for keeping the fun original interior. Great food and service, pleasant vibe and the coffee is actually good! Lol.i love having a nice option. Also insanely affordable. Wish you guys the best of luck with your business ps. Get the porridge

A comfortable atmosphere, friendly staff, loose leaf tea, and delicious food. The soups are my favourite.

Small, charming, and friendly cafe.
Decent rotating vegan options.
Music and lighting is soft which is amazing for a cafe these days, it's actually nice to sit in!

Divine, I loved it, super recommended, everything hypermegadelicious! Wonderful care! #PowerfulWomen #FoodfortheSoul

Lovely cosy space with indoor and ample outdoor seating at the back. The art deco design and colours in the cafe was welcoming and definitely brightened up my day! Tried the eggplant burger and vegan chocolate cake and they were so good. Service is top notch! Definitely saving this place on my list.

Update: tried their coffee - amazing!

Big Elma is my new fave cafe! Such a wonderful vibe and AMAZING foods- congrats to the Big Elma team creating such an inviting sunny delicious ambiance!

Such a lovely cafe, with super yummy toasties, great coffee, and lovely staff! Definitely my new regular cafe!