Recent social media posts
28/05/2026
📣 Farewell Garry! ❤ Yes, sad but true! One of our beloved chefs, Garry, will finish up with us at The General this Sunday 31st May. If you would like to pop in to wish him luck, Sunday’s the day!
Garry, thank you for your incredible skills and dedication over the past nearly three years. You have been unwavering – solidly creating our dishes for our beloved customers while building connection with them and our team too! All the while ensuring our little family can get away on much needed breaks here and there too. You will be missed and we wish you all the very best as you step into the world of business ownership – break a leg!
Never fear folks, our wonderful Jason remains at the helm, and we welcome new chef Wade into the fold next week! Wade brings lots of amazing brunch experience to The General so we're sure he'll hit the ground running.
Be sure to pop in Sunday to give Garry a General-style send off!
18/05/2026
📣 LOCAL CHEF ROLE OPPORTUNITY! 📣 Do we have your next career move sorted? We know this is a hard industry to find decent working conditions in. We pride ourselves on creating a workplace that goes against the traditional 'work till you drop', low paid, high staff turnover environments that so many of us have experienced in our careers. It can be different, and it is at our company...just ask our team. So if proper pay, and excellent work/life balance sound good to you, check out the following positions at https://au.seek.com/job/92148968?ref=cm-ui
👉 About the role:
This role is an opportunity for an experienced, passionate, driven chef with a creative flair who loves seasonal cooking. If you thrive on the buzz of a cafe in full swing, days will fly by as you pump out brunch for our adoring customers. The ability to self-manage and self-critique is imperative.
We remain an industry leader in our region through our seasonal-driven menus, exceptional customer service, and passion for hospitality. Our bi-monthly menu takes inspiration from a range of cuisines. We present approachable yet unique brunch dishes and enjoy the creativity that seasonal changes bring.
👉 Key points of interest
- 4-day shifts a week, Wednesday to Saturday
- Local cafe. No driving into the city!
- Menu changes quarterly
- Focus on local, seasonal produce
- Dietary-friendly menu
- Great working culture
- Small kitchen team
- Creativity encouraged
- Great local produce
- Fast-paced environment
- Working closely with the owners
- Work alongside a motivated FOH team
- Respectful and cooperative team
- Established, lovely, loyal customer base
- Honest company that looks after its team
- Staff discount at our venues
- All-you-can-drink coffee!
- Salary, plus super, and phone bills paid
Find out more about our company at https://www.thegeneralfoodstore.com.au/jobs
We look forward to hearing from you!!
14/05/2026
Come and give your tastebuds a treat. Set menu is just $55 for a full happy tummy. Some nights are already almost booked out, so make sure you book soon.
06/05/2026
🇫🇷 French Nights are here! BOOK NOW!
Every Friday and Saturday evening from 15th May to 6th June, we're opening our doors from 5pm to transport you to the heart of France — no passport (or jet fuel) required!
Join us for an evening of indulgence where the timeless flavours of French cuisine come alive through a seasonal sharing menu crafted by our very own Paul 'Dougie' Douglas.
Think duck confit terrine, goat's cheese soufflé, slow-braised beef Bourguignon, crème brûlée, tart au citron… and so much more. Did somebody say snails? All washed down with a crafted selection of French varietal wines from across Australia. Dietary friendly options available.
📅 Fridays & Saturdays | 15 May – 6 June
🕔 Doors open 5pm
🔗 Book online | See menu https://www.thegeneralfoodstore.com.au/nights-at-the-general
📞 03 5968 3580
🏪 Or pop in-store
Menu
Four weekends only — bookings are essential. Don't miss out!
24/04/2026
17/04/2026
Did you know multi talented Dougie plays in the band Here for the Beers? Time to get a social presence we think!
17/04/2026
Our new menu is here and PHARAOH'S FIBRE is flying out the door! Casablanca roasted vegetables, pumpkin hummus, coriander zhoug, confit garlic, za'atar. Comes gluten free and vegan. Add feta, halloumi, poached eggs if you wish! Check the new menu out here: https://www.thegeneralfoodstore.com.au/menu
Address
377 Belgrave-Gembrook Road
Emerald, VIC
3782
The café and breakfast & brunch restaurant is located on Belgrave-Gembrook Road in Melbourne. If you're traveling by public transport, the closest bus stop is located just a short walk away from the restaurant. For those driving, parking is available nearby. From Melbourne CBD, drive out towards Belgrave along Burwood Highway and then turn onto Belgrave-Gembrook Road. The café will be located on your right-hand side.
Opening Hours
| Monday |
7:30am - 3pm |
| Tuesday |
8am - 3pm |
| Wednesday |
8am - 3pm |
| Friday |
7:30am - 3pm |
| Saturday |
8am - 3pm |
| Sunday |
8am - 3pm |
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What people say
The General Food Store, located on Belgrave-Gembrook Road in Melbourne, is a must-visit for foodies and coffee lovers alike. This café and breakfast & brunch restaurant offers a dietary-friendly menu that features seasonal food and quality coffee. The housemade and locally sourced providore ensures that every dish is fresh and bursting with flavor.
One of the standout dishes on their new menu is the Umami Harmony, which features thick cut sourdough, miso nut butter, fried mushrooms, crushed peas, pickled ginger, and radish salad. This vegan and dairy-free option can also be made gluten-free upon request.
The General Food Store is open daily, including public holidays such as the King's Birthday. While they don't take bookings, they do run a daily waitlist during busy times to ensure that all guests are accommodated.
If you're passionate about customer service and want to be part of this vibrant team, The General Food Store is currently seeking a Junior team member for after-school and weekend work. On-the-job training will be provided with opportunities for growth within the business.
Overall, The General Food Store is a fantastic spot to enjoy delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on this gem!
