The concept
Do you have a family member that is a whiz in the kitchen? You know, one that you always say should open up a cafe? Well, for Anthony Paolino that person is his mother Carmel. A landscaper by trade, Anthony had discussed the prospect of ditching the tools to open up a cafe with his mother, an idea that eventually snowballed to encompass Anthony’s wife Jessica and father Angelo to become a reality. Little Paul’s Urban Food Market is the result of the Paolino family’s inspiration – a hub for lovers of nourishing homemade food, good coffee and gourmet products. Set in a warehouse in the heart of Albion (with interior design by Jessica and renovations by Anthony), Little Paul’s boasts a fully-equipped coffee bench, a new kitchen, a side laneway with plenty of tables and shelves stocked with a selection of imported and gourmet goods.
The food and drink
Little Paul’s coffee of choice comes from local outfit Laneway Coffee, a smooth and strong blend with beans that can be ground on site and taken home. When it comes to the food, the key piece is Carmel, who not only whips up the menu items for breakfast and lunch, but also serves up new recipes on a whim. All requests are considered, and you’ll never know what sort of grub will be on offer when you pop in. Not only can you expect tasty omelettes, granola cups, and homemade Italian bites such as fresh paninis, Stromboli sandwiches, Italian sausage rolls, lasagne and parmigiana sliders, but the likes of Brazilian coxinhas also feature. As for the providore portion, patrons can purchase grains and nuts, as well as imported goods from Italy such as oil, vinegars, pre-made sauces, pastas and even laundry products. Fridges are stocked with take-home meals, cheeses and meats, and the selection is ever-growing – another reason to stop in often.
The extras
The Paolinos will be looking to capitalise on their ample space by hosting a range of events in the near future. Keep your eyes peeled for special BYO-friendly dinners in the laneway (with a Valentine’s dinner already planned), as well as a range of pop-up shops, cooking classes and other happenings. Pets are welcome, and there is a handy kids area for the little ones to enjoy while parents browse and dine at leisure. Finally, Jessica has drawn a gorgeous wing mural that tells a story of the family’s Italian heritage, filled with pictures of food and places related to the Paolino’s home country and history. The wings even come with their own hashtag for patrons to contribute to when they visit!
Little Paul’s Urban Food Market is stocked and open to the public. More information and contact details can be found in the Stumble Guide.
