The Age Cheap Eats 2006

When scenes from Aussie soap Last Man Standing were filmed nearby, the gallant little shopping strip leapt from up-and-coming to next-big-thing. Whatever the buzz, Pepper continues to serve up breakfasts like coconut-stuffed poached pear with caramel sauce and mascarpone, and lunches like linguine with pumpkin, rocket and hazelnuts in pesto sauce. If that sounds richer than the new neighbours, try the good sandwiches and focaccias. Outdoor tables catch the breeze in summer and the back room captures precious rays in winter, and the front bar is good for actor spotting anytime.