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Serving flavour, friendship, and local pride in Wantirna
- binhluong3
- Sep 24
- 2 min read
Schokolade Café – Wantirna South
For nearly seven years, Schokolade Café has been a warm and welcoming part of
Wantirna, known not just for its great coffee and food but also for its passion for
people and community. Owned by hospitality veterans with over 30 years of
experience Adrian and Justine Salanitri, Schokolade is more than just a café, it’s a
place where friendships are made, local creativity is celebrated, and everyone feels
at home.
A passion for hospitality
With a career spanning three decades, head chef Adrian and wife Justine bring a
deep love for cooking and hospitality to Schokolade. The café was born from a
desire to create a space where locals could enjoy not only exceptional food and
coffee but also a genuine sense of connection. Over the years, this passion has
grown into a thriving business that reflects the heart of the Wantirna community.
More than just a café
Schokolade offers fresh, healthy breakfast and lunch options, complemented by
amazing coffee and quirky coffee-inspired retail products. But what truly sets it apart is the unique atmosphere, local artwork lines the walls, conversations flow easily, and customers are encouraged to linger, relax, and connect. Pets are also welcome, with special treats on hand to ensure your furry friends feel just as at home as you do.
At the core of Schokolade’s values is a commitment to customer service, inclusivity, and giving back. The team proudly supports local clubs and events, and their focus has always been on building relationships, not just serving food and drinks.
This dedication to community was recognised in 2021 when Schokolade was awarded Best Local Café in Knox, a testament to the love and loyalty of their customers.
A place for everyone
Stepping into Schokolade, customers can expect a laid-back and inviting
atmosphere, paired with friendly staff who go the extra mile to brighten your day.
Whether you’re rushing in for a quick takeaway coffee, settling in for a leisurely
breakfast, or meeting friends for lunch, the café offers something for everyone. Many regulars have become friends, and the team takes pride in remembering not just orders, but the people behind them.
Connected to Wantirna
Wantirna has proven to be the perfect home for Schokolade. The suburb’s strong
sense of community and loyal locals have made it a joy for the team to do what they love every day. Adrian and Justine value the connections they’ve made, from daily catch-ups with regulars to collaborations with local clubs and businesses that share their passion for community spirit.
Looking ahead
For the team at Schokolade, the future is about growth, creativity, and continuing to give back. They plan to deepen their ties within Wantirna, expand collaborations with local artists and businesses, and introduce new menu items that reflect their customers’ evolving tastes. Above all, they want Schokolade to remain a cornerstone of the community, a place where people feel welcome, supported, and part of something bigger than just a café.
