Pope Joan
77–79 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East, Melbourne
Within the shell of two neighbouring houses in Brunswick East sits Pope Joan, the creation of business partners Ben Foster and chef Matt Wilkinson. Your stomach will start grumbling the moment you step inside Pope Joan, as an amalgamation of delicious scents wafts from the open kitchen. The main dining areas are framed by exposed brick walls and dark timber floorboards, illuminated by the abundance of light that filters in from the wide windows, louvres and skylights. Fresh blooms brighten each table, sitting alongside mismatched sugar bowls, and an eclectic collection of vintage baking paraphernalia and curios line the shelves, interspersed with copies of Matt’s cookbooks. The adjoining bar takes on a slightly different persona to the cafe-cum-restaurant, featuring concrete bricks, intricate tiling, leather details and warm naked lights. Outside, the warble of magpies echoes through the bountiful garden brimming with fruit, vegetables and herbs, ready to be showcased on Pope Joan’s seasonal menu.