Bluestone Cafe Ballarat

Although I wasn't explicitly asked if I was ready to order, the staff was attentive and clearly knew when I was set to go. The staff maintained great eye contact while serving other customers, showing an impressive level of attention to everyone. The service included options for phone orders, pre-orders, warm seating, a vegetarian menu, coffee refills, and just the right amount of friendly conversation with customers. My food arrived in about 10 minutes, which was perfect! The portion size was surprisingly satisfying—not too big for someone with a smaller appetite and not too small for those who are hungry. It was just right, encouraging a relaxed enjoyment of the simple and beautiful aspects of life. The Indonesian cuisine was well-represented, featuring high-quality white rice and a generous serving of sambal. Indonesia has a vast variety of sambal, and while this particular one wasn’t too spicy (but could still be sharp for those not used to it), they are accommodating to individual preferences—just ask for it mild if you're unsure. I was also impressed by the thoughtfulness shown when they held the door open for a departing customer and assisted her with her car right in front of the café. I will definitely be returning to this café next time. Highly recommended! Apologies if my photo isn't complete, but I hope you find this review honest and helpful.

This is a fantastic Indonesian restaurant and café. We enjoyed a delicious lamb curry, ayam chicken, and stir-fried beef with vegetables. The sambal was excellent. The service was friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy.

What a fantastic place! The owner was incredibly kind; we didn't have any cash on us, and he told us we could pay next time when we're in Ballarat. I went to the ATM and returned the next day! He even treated us to free chocolate and prepared a homemade bottle of Sambal for us to pick up on Friday!

Excellent food and coffee! Friendly, fast service and authentic Indonesian food freshly cooked on site. Small but cozy cafe run by a man and a woman, plenty of space and good for meeting with friends, as we did, how you can talk without calling to hear. Will definitely come back!

Just had the best meal here, always drive past this cafe as we live just down the road but first time here. We ordered the nasi goreng, Soto Ayam, chai latte and New York cheesecake. Right off the bat, the cafe is so cute and the owner is so lovely. There was a lovely gentleman playing acoustic guitar and singing beautiful songs like Hallelujah, Jolene, Can't help falling in love. So sweet. The food was absolutely delicious and authentic, the homemade sambal was to die for!! The owner asked what temperature we would like the latte, such attention to detail. It tasted fantastic. He also gave us extra ice cream and strawberries with our cheesecake. They only take cash so make sure to bring cash! New favourite place in ballarat, make sure to visit if you're here! Will visit again often, love this place.