Mr Tucker
Melrose Street is a hidden pocket of North Melbourne, and Jacob Stammer’s Pocket Café was the first cafe of its kind on the strip, way back in 2013.
Jacob’s latest dining space, Mr Tucker, is an evolution of the original Pocket Cafe experience.
“Pocket Cafe was mostly focused on takeaway. But my regular customers were calling out for somewhere to come and sit down and somewhere to come at night.”
“The opportunity came to take over the bakery and then the IGA bottle shop on Melrose Street, so I went for it.
At Mr Tucker, there’s now a coffee station, footpath tables, a big dining room and a sunny courtyard. There’s a swag of options from coffee for the early risers, a fridge full of takeaway home-cooked meals, a catering menu and a just-launched dinner service several nights a week.
Jacob’s regulars love the bagels, chicken bagels and muffins, which run out the door and have become a staple of the takeaway menu. The brunch and dinner menu are currently available three days a week, with a view to trading seven days a week.
“The night menu is completely different, with a nice substantial snack menu and a Mediterranean feel. The house-made Sicilian style square pizzas are a crowd favourite.”
Growing up in Byron Bay, Jacob was drawn to Melbourne after visiting family here and experiencing what Melbourne had to offer, especially in the North Melbourne area.
“One of my close friends grew up around here. I stumbled across the commercial real estate listing and knew that there was a massive opportunity for a quality cafe in the area.
“It's a friendly neighbourhood spot. It's enjoyable to come to work because it is a fun social environment - like constantly chatting with your friends,” laughs Jacob. “I love that it doesn't feel like a job!”
WORDS BY JOYCE WATTS & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA ENCIOMr Tucker
