Mietta's Review
St KIlda comes to Balaclava with a very creative menu - nothing plain here - and lots of good looks including a courtyard at the rear. This is for those who love the rumble of the trains and are bored with classical Australian cafe cooking and want something different like a fillet steak sandwich with wasabi mayo, $11.50.

Other published opinions

The Age Cheap Eats 2009 "If you like a bit of hubbub with your grub, this go-go place is for you. Perch in a wooden chair to be in the thick of it, or settle back in the black leather banquettes or the succulentadorned garden for a cruisier feel"

The Age Cheap Eats 2008 "Expanding into an adjoining shop has done little to quell the demand at this way-cool caff, which still bursts its seams into the courtyard"

The Age Cheap Eats 2007 "Polished concrete and changing music posters are part of the look at this high-profile hangout, where crowds squeeze in from sun-up till 5pm knockoff."

The Age Cheap Eats 2006 The only problem with lunch at Balaclava's cafe of the moment is that it's so hard to pass up the stellar breakfasts. ... But don't miss out on fine lunchtime fare ... enjoyed either in the bright, narrow cafe or the slightly pongy courtyard

The Age Cheap Eats 2005 "AFTER an extreme makeover, Las Chicas is looking the goods. She's got a new courtyard out back with timber tables, a pink and pine-wood interior and a fresh lick of vanilla paint. She's also sporting a brand new menu and it's a humdinger."

The Age Cheap Eats 2004,Excellent breakfasts,Good vegetarian options,'a sparkly place for good food and coffee.Gig posters tacked to the walls and the odd grungy waiter give it a Brunswick St feel.But the food is universally pleasing'