With a sunny corner spot on Wiltshire Drive, Somerville General Store is reimagining the classic milk bar. Brought to you by the same team behind Edithvale and Langwarrin General Stores, the venue has been transformed into a neighbourhood community hub, cafe and grocer.
The site has seen a slew of owners over the years, operating as a no-frills fish ‘n’ chip shop and a general home supply store. With a central spot and plenty of parking, it’s now a one-stop shop where residents can meet for coffee and grab their daily provisions.
The vibe inside is laid-back and family-friendly, with a stack of pastel high chairs and plenty of space to park a pram. A light and bright fit-out includes a fresh white paint job and polished concrete floors, with the original fridges and deep-fryers remaining in place.
They’ve kept the nostalgic feel of the old milk bar with deep chest freezers and rows of candy bars beckoning from the front counter. You can take a seat at one of the timber tables inside, or join the hordes of locals on the picnic tables out front. Shaded by tasselled beach umbrellas, it’s the preferred spot to perch with kids and pooches.
Here, “everything starts and ends with coffee”, with a contract roaster providing their signature morning blend. A steady flow of tradies and office workers roll in from 6am to get their daily brew, with coffee alternatives including Prana Chai, Matcha Maiden and Golden Grind.
A casual all-day menu includes wholesome bowls and breakfast staples, from grab-n-go breaky buns and chia puddings to a fancy chilli scramble and avo smash. There’s acai on tap, loaded with fresh fruit and coconut or generous scoops of peanut butter and Nutella. Order a poke bowl with your choice of protein from the counter, or a fried honey chicken burger with kewpie mayo, pickles and sweet potato fries. There are local pies and sausage rolls in the warmer, and trays of ready-made lasagne in the fridge ready to take home for quick and easy dinners.
A curated selection of essentials are sourced from Mornington Peninsula suppliers, including Baker Boys bread, Jim Jam pasta sauce, and fresh produce from Scicluna’s. There’s also a range of boujee goods from further afield – including Tony Chocolonely, Proper Crisps, Brookfarm Muesli and Who Gives A Crap. Amongst the freestanding racks, you’ll find a collection of homewares and gifts from Commonfolk Candles, Robert Gordon, and Fox and Fallow.
You’ll find Somerville General Store’s umbrellas out and coffee machine on from 6am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and from 7am to 4pm on weekends. Keep your eyes peeled on their socials for extended hours and nights coming soon.
