Just open: Le Jolie Cafe

Wholesale artisan Belgian waffle makers Guy Trinquet and Kathleen Alexander, the duo behind Waffle Jolie, have opened a chic cafe in Pascoe Vale. It's been jokingly referred to as ''the secret cafe''; signage is expected to arrive any day, though locals might prefer otherwise.

A dark, sultry interior seats about 30 and a vine-covered courtyard a further 20. Parisian-born Trinquet, whose CV includes the iconic Cafe de Flore, has crafted a menu inspired by his childhood, including baked eggs, brioche-based croques monsieur, crepes, and slow-cooked beef.

Waffle devotees will have to wait till the weekend; the 10-ingredient process is too time-consuming for every day. Coffee is from local microroaster Bambaleros. Open daily (except Wednesday) for breakfast and lunch; plans are afoot to open Friday and Saturday evenings when a liquor licence comes through.

Le Jolie Cafe, 438 Gaffney Street, Pascoe Vale, 9379 9886.