Let Minnow Cafe
Clayfield
Let Minnow Cafe pays homage to the old Clayfield Aquarium it occupies by exuding a very fishy vibe - in the nicest possible way. Light and airy and full of fun and fishy puns, Let Minnow Cafe is a breath of fresh air in the Clayfield cafe scene.
Led by Lauren McNamara, a young and vibrant team at Let Minnow provides a warm welcome and great, friendly service.
It's obvious that much thought, hard work and planning has gone into every little detail in this family owned business. Beautifully decorated to create an open, welcoming space for customers to enjoy and with seating both inside and out, there is a distinctly Queensland feel here, further enhanced by bi-fold windows opening onto the footpath.
Corny puns reminiscent of Dad jokes can be found everywhere (in the menu, on blackboards and on staff t-shirts), adding to the fun and light-heartedness to be found at Let Minnow.
Not surprisingly, sardines, tuna, seasonal fish and salmon feature on the menu here, but those not so keen on fish needn't worry as there are so many other delicious options to choose from. Breakfast offerings include squashed avo, feta, dukkah and lemon on light rye, a range of tasty Jumbo Jaffles, The Mince Bowl, Spanish Beans, and French Toast Sandwich..
For lunch the choices are also many with bagels, burgers, tacos, wraps and much more. The specials board at the cafe's entrance is also worth checking out.
The "mini minnows" (kids) are catered for here with their own food and drinks menus and a play area to keep them busy. Special dietary requirements can be met with gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian and vegan options included on the menu.
Locally owned and operated West End Teas supplies organic teas whilst the awesome coffee comes from Nat's Coffee, based just south of Byron Bay. Owner, Nat Byron (yes, that is his real name), is passionate about his coffee and supplying only the best.
For those who like to try something different, why not try an apple and cinnamon latte or the house made seasonal iced tea. Thank You water is sold here, with each bottle of water purchased helping to provide safe water access to someone in need.
It's the little things that count and this cafe is big on those little things. You won't find table numbers here. Reflecting their love of the local area, the McNamara family have replaced numbers with local street names. Even the menu at Let Minnow is a work of art and answers all the questions customers may have about their food, beverages, suppliers, philosophy and more. Another nice touch is the addition of a beehive and herb garden in the backyard - once again, keeping it local.
There's just so much to like about Let Minnow, from their passion for Brisbane, their area, great food, awesome coffee and corny puns to the care and consideration they show in supporting minimal food miles, local suppliers and growers and the family's mindfulness of ethically sustainable practices. There's more for visitors to discover here, so why not call in and enjoy the Let Minnow experience for yourself?
Need to know: Let Minnow is pram and wheelchair accessible. There's plenty of parking on-street and dogs are welcome outside.
Nice to know - If you'd like one of the Let Minnow t-shirts (complete with fishy pun), they are available for sale.
The menu may have changed since our visit.
By Sandy Ludinski