Naming a business can be difficult. But for Daniel Dixon, choosing to call his business The Joinery was simple. This restaurant and bar joins Ormond and Glenhuntly Roads – you can enter from either end of the site.

The flow of sea-salt dusted locals coming from Elwood beach for their caffeine is a reassuring sign of good coffee (beans are by Coffee Supreme).

If you fancy a little alcohol in your coffee, the cocktail bar’s Espresso Martini with Eristoff vodka, Kahlua, chestnut liqueur and creme de cacao is good on a hot day. Cold drips are also available in the summer.

For lunch, it’s hard to look past the soy and quinoa loaf Reuben sandwich. It’s got corned beef, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, pickles and Swiss cheese. Hundreds are served each week.

Suspended light clusters, exposed-brick walls and chalkboard menus create a relaxed environment. The Joinery accommodates all types of occasions, whether you’re on a date, catching up with mum, or meeting an old friend.

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