If you live in Melbourne's South Eastern suburbs, you will no doubt be familiar with Oasis Bakery on North Road, Murrumbeena. The Middle Eastern grocer/cafe/bakery is aptly named for it is a sanctuary among the industrial estate.

Although I've always been familiar Oasis Bakery's freshly baked pizzas, bread and handmade savoury pastries have attracted customers from all over Melbourne, it was only until recently that I've noticed that cafe menu, which serves Middle-Eastern and Lebanese-inspired sweet and savoury selections.

During the Labour Day weekend, Steven and I dropped by Oasis for brunch. It was an impromptu decision and we were expecting a long wait. However, we were surprised by at the laid-back atmosphere of the place and the huge dining space. The ordering system was efficient and typical of a bakery: You go up to the counter and order your food. When the buzzer rings, you go over to another section of the food counter to pick up your food.

The menu consists of a variety of Middle-Eastern and Lebanese-inspired dishes, which all screams "Eat me! I'm delicious!" immediately. I've lost count of how many times I have to discreetly Google a component on a brunch menu or check out the cafe/restaurant's Instagram page with the menu in my hand. So, Oasis' cafe menu is a breath of fresh air, especially for a lazy Sunday.


If you have a sweet tooth, I definitely recommend the PB&J Waffles, served with raspberry compote, peanut butter parfait, grape molasses, fresh raspberries and persian fairy floss. The Belgian waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, which is my mark of a good waffle. Beware though, it packs a sweet punch. Be sure to have a cup of tea or coffee nearby - you'll need it.


But if you've worked up an appetite, then the Lebanese Breakfast is perfect for you: scrambled eggs with sojouk, full medammas, olives, grilled haloumi, tomatoes, cucumbers, chilli labneh balls and pita. Believe me, Steve was so full after the big breakfast. Being the cheese-loving person that he is, he was smiling ear-to-ear and satisfied with his meal.

If you have some time after the big brunch or lunch, take a walk in the grocery/bakery section. There are so many Lebanese/Turkish pastries, snacks, teas and cooking ingredients you will not leave empty-handed.

Oasis Bakery: 993 North Road, Hughesdale/Murrumbeena. 
Open daily 8am - 7pm, 8am - 9pm (Thursdays and Fridays only).