Lydiard General Cafe & Diner

313 Lydiard St N, Soldiers Hill VIC 3350, Australia

+61 3 4343 1414

$$$ Cafe , Gift shop , Home goods store

(139 Reviews)

Price Range $20–40

About Lydiard General Cafe & Diner

Welcome to Lydiard General Cafe & Diner, a delightful treasure nestled in the heart of Soldiers Hill, VIC. Located at 313 Lydiard St N, this charming cafe is not just a stop for coffee; it’s a warm embrace of community, culinary creativity, and the kind of joyful atmosphere that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

As you step inside, you're greeted by a cutesy and retro-inspired decor that instantly lifts your spirits. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends or simply savoring a moment of solitude with your favorite brew. With both indoor seating and an inviting outdoor area, there’s a spot for everyone, whether you prefer the bustling vibe inside or the fresh air outside.

Lydiard General Cafe & Diner stands out for its commitment to quality and taste. The menu features a medley of delightful offerings, with customer favorites including the Chilli Corn Cane Toastie—a truly perfect combination that marries rich flavors with the soothing textures of sour cream and avocado. As Mel K noted, the addition of crispy chips makes this dish an irresistible treat.

Food lovers will appreciate the slow-cooked pork belly Banh Mi, reminiscent of those found in the streets of Vietnam, as raved about by Michael Porter. Each bite echoes carefully balanced flavors that dance on the palate. Don’t forget to save room for the Basque Burnt Cheesecake, a dessert that David Sage assures is a must-try for its creamy decadence.

But the experience doesn’t stop at main dishes. A variety of delicious bakery items are also available, ensuring that your sweet tooth is well-satisfied. Lily highlights the cafe's adorably curated selection of nicknacks, making it a perfect spot for a little treat or gift as you sip on one of their heavenly mochas.

Service here is consistently friendly and prompt, adding to the overall warmth of the cafe. As Cate Malouf mentions, the wholesome and homely atmosphere is complemented by super friendly service, ensuring that every visit feels special. Whether you're popping in for a light meal, indulging in a delightful cake, or simply catching up over quality coffee, Lydiard General Cafe & Diner guarantees a memorable experience.

If you find yourself in Soldiers Hill, make sure to carve out some time for this local gem. With an array of delectable dishes, adorable decor, and a welcoming environment, Lydiard General Cafe & Diner is a destination for food lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike.

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Location & Map

Openings Hours

Monday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 01:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

Guest Reviews

139 Reviews

Mel K

24 Sep 2025

This small cafe serve one of the best cafe food. Chilli corn cane toastie is just perfect and tasty. Also serve with sour cream and avocado. The toasties also come with chips. Very yummy combination. Ham and cheese sandwiches also very good. Coffee is very good. Only handful of tables Indoor and some outdoor. Lots of yummy bakery items sold in the cafe and very popular too. Plenty of parking nearby and walking distance from train station. Staff are very busy but friendly.

Michael Porter

21 Aug 2025

The team really care about the food they serve. We will be back to try some of your other delicious looking offerings. The slow cooked pork belly Banh Mi flavours reminded me of the ones we ate in Vietnam. Highly recommend. I also really enjoyed the basque burnt cheesecake. My wife and son really enjoyed their toasties. The coffee was also enjoyable. There is seating inside, out the front and outside along the side of the building. Thanks team for a great lunch!

David Sage

11 Aug 2025

Always great service and consistently good coffee. It is a wonderful place to have a light meal, delicious cake and meet up with friends.

Cate Malouf

22 Jul 2025

Had the most wonderful morning here yesterday....the corn fritters (specials board) were the best I've had anywhere. Wholesome and homely atmosphere and super friendly service. Most definitely will be going again to try the rest of the menu!

Lily

17 Jul 2025

This cafe is an absolute gem! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a cutesy, wholesome atmosphere thanks to its girly and retro style. The service is fantastic; you never have to wait long for your coffee or drinks, which is always a plus. What really sets this place apart is their adorable selection of nick-nacks—perfect for a little treat or gift. And let's talk about the mocha – it's hands down the best I've had in Victoria! They truly know how to make a mocha that hits all the right notes. If you're looking for a delightful cafe experience, this is the spot. This fantastic place to come with the girls to spill tea and drink coffee or have some one on one time with company.

Sam Blanchard

06 Jul 2025

Great food, friendly staff, and lots of places to sit despite how small the cafe space is.

Bavani Pillai

01 Jul 2025

Best peach custard pie! Lovely atmosphere and service.

Lucy S

18 Jun 2025

A must try in Ballarat! Love this cafe, amazing sandwiches, good coffee, cosy atmosphere and great service. Love the little things they sell inside the cafe, makes it super homey. The kids love the sprinkles babycinos and the variety of cookies and cakes that’s on offer. The pork belly roll ( The Victoria) and the chicken corn soup is my favorite. Easy park right outside and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating