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Reawakening a culinary dream
- binhluong3
- Mar 13
- 2 min read
121 Station Cafe – Ferntree Gully
Reviving a community gem
In September 2019, Tom embarked on a culinary adventure by taking over a cafe that had once thrived under a different name but had closed its doors. With decades of experience in the hospitality business, Tom had initially decided to retire and take a well-deserved break.
However, after traveling from place to place, he found himself yearning for purpose and a sense of belonging. It was then that he stumbled upon a small shop advertised on Gumtree, a perfect fit for his aspirations. With excitement in his heart, Tom decided to buy it and breathe new life into it.
A culinary fusion
121 Station Cafe quickly gained a reputation for offering a delightful mix of Vietnamese and Australian cuisine. Tom served up mouthwatering dishes like 'banh mi', 'pho', rice paper rolls, and spring rolls, alongside classic Aussie favourites such as omelettes and bacon rolls.
The cafe became known for its excellent coffee and exceptional service, always delivered with a warm smile.
Tom's motto, "fresh, clean, with a good price," resonated with customers, who appreciated the high-quality ingredients and reasonable prices.
Commitment to freshness and quality
Tom's dedication to providing fresh food was evident in every dish served at 121 Station Cafe. Unlike many other establishments, Tom insisted on cooking everything to order, ensuring that each meal was freshly prepared. While this sometimes meant a slightly longer wait, customers appreciated the effort and attention to detail. The cafe quickly built a loyal customer base, and Tom was deeply grateful for the support and encouragement from the community.
Building bonds and giving back
Having operated in Ferntree Gully for over five years, Tom and his family grew to love the area and its residents. They formed meaningful connections and friendships with many locals. In return, Tom made it a priority to give back to the community. Police officers, fire brigade volunteers, and ambulance officers were always welcomed with complimentary coffee as a token of appreciation for their service. Additionally, 121 Station Cafe introduced a "suspended coffee" initiative for those in financial need. Through these efforts, the cafe became a cornerstone of community support and goodwill.
Contact
 | 0413 329 963 |
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 | 121 Station St, Ferntree Gully VIC 3156 |
