The cafe: Somebody should drop a bomb on the triangle that is made up by Carlisle St, Acland St and Barkly St...just make sure Cicciolina survives...that place is damn good. Fortunately, just around the corner from that Bermuda Triangle of trash is a peaceful little strip of shops on Blessington St. Not the part near the 7-11...the part behind Prime and where the laundromat is. Although Nineteen Squares now seats more than 19 people, it is still a small-ish cafe. Outside there are tiny tables almost made for children and a few milk crates. On the inside, you still can't swing a cat in the original space (and they need to get rid of those spoons on the wall). The new part is a lot more spacious and has a cool little kitchen at the rear. However, they look like two different places...which is a little awkward... The crowd is a lot more relaxed (and sober) than other parts of St Kilda. And I only heard two Irish accents whilst I was there... Reasonable breakfast options, a few sangas, some salads and hamburgers on Friday and Saturday nights. The staff could smile a bit more...The coffee: As can be seen, it's quite neat looking. The aromas are predominantly roasted and charcoal with hints of creaminess. The charcoal is the most interesting one...not burnt but definitely 'well cooked'. It is quite evident on the palate too and the finish has lengthening dark chocolate flavours with hints of licorice. The froth was quite thick and heavy and wouldn't blend into the liquid. Hence you get a shot of coffee and a shot of froth...not exactly ideal. Not overly complex and a little out of balance. Temperature was good. $3.50. Score 7.5/10.
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