REVIEW: Soho Lane, Mt Lawley dishes up wholesome food inside their stylish digs, hidden in a car park

I’ve spent a lot of time in the Fresh Provisions car park, which is not nearly as dodgy as it sounds.

Many a ready-made meal were purchased from Freshies on a Sunday when I was too lazy to cook, or it was the starting point for an afternoon of eating and drinking at the tasty offerings along Beaufort Street.

It’s a trusty mass of concrete — you’ll always get a spot and the first hour is free.

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However, the prospect of eating my breakfast overlooking the car park wasn’t necessarily the most appealing one, no matter how well it has served me.

Soho Lane sits inside the redeveloped and formerly drab Alexander Buildings, which is unrecognisable with its fresh burst of colour, artworks and striking architectural additions.

On a Saturday morning there is a buzz around the buildings, with people and dogs grabbing their morning coffee or weekend provisions.

This vibe spills into Soho Lane itself: nearly every table is full but you can still hear the conversation with the person next to you.

Inside, the interiors are soft and feminine, with pinks and terrazzo and light-coloured wood finishes, high ceilings and plenty of natural light. Not once did I think about its proximity to the carpark.

Much like its vibrant interiors, the dishes we ate, and what we spied other tables, was bright and happy food that made you feel good eating.

The falafel with herb and sesame, tabbouleh, mixed summer pickles, fried lentils, green tahini sauce ($18) with a poached egg ($4) was a colourful mass of goodness.

There was a new texture and flavour with every bite. Hiding under the kale were pickled radish and cauliflower which were delicious with the warm falafel and creamy sauce.

Similarly, the heirloom tomatoes, stracciatella, basil on sourdough ($20) also with a poached egg ($4) was a feel-good dish, because how often do you get to devour cheese at breakfast?

It was generously smothered with the stracciatella, ripe tomatoes and their best friend basil. It’s a popular flavour combo for good reason.

Service was friendly and efficient and the coffee — they use Osborne Park-based roasters Micrology beans — was a good temperature and strength to drink right away.

The Fresh Provisions car park just got a whole lot better.

Soho Lane

Address: Alexander, Buildings, 13/649 Beaufort St, Mt Lawley

The verdict: Bright and buzzing cafe with happy and filling food. Service is efficient and friendly and the menu is diverse mix of healthy, hearty and sweet.

Rating: 8/10