Our Story
Take part in the Harvest.
Situated in one of the Yarra Ranges most historic buildings (circa 1890), Harrow & Harvest opened in a little church just 6 days before Victoria’s Stage 4 lockdowns in 2020. We had barely opened our doors for sit down service before having to convert our whole operation to takeaway only.
Little did we know that phase would last 4 long months, but throughout that testing & uncertain time, one thing became apparent – we had created something the locals needed. A hang out spot for foodies & coffee lovers. A place to go with the fam, or friends for brunch. A space where everyone felt welcome.
Support your local
Harrow & Harvest is about enriching the community – not only with delicious, healthy food but by supporting local female artists, entrepreneurs & sole traders.
Where we can, we source local, employ local, and support local. We consider how our carbon footprint effects the world around us and play an active part in the solution by using sustainable packaging and sourcing ethically.
In 2021 (7 months after opening) we were voted Best Cafe in the Yarra Ranges by the local community. An honour we certainly don’t take for granted.
In the future we hope to even further enrich our community by working with local charities, running markets to help locals sell their produce and offer local makers a hub to host workshops and classes for their small businesses.
Church
This beautiful little church building is circa 1890. We still have the original floors, stain glass windows and cathedral ceiling. In winter we have a gorgeous fireplace going, which was added in the 70’s back when it was a wedding reception venue. You’ll also notice the original church pews of which we still use today. This building has true historic charm and such a special feel to it. The church offers a cozy and inviting seating area, I like to describe it as a big warm hug!
Vestibule
One of our favourite parts of this historic building is the entrance way which leads to the original church. We’ve been lucky enough to see photos of the vestibule with two operating doors and stairs leading up to each door. It’s since been changed to one operations door and one stair case but if you look closely you’ll be able to see the arch way which once had 100’s of guests making their way through for church service.
The Loft
Our loft seating is such a special area of the cafe. It was built in the 70’s above the first floor of the church. This space has seen endless weddings and celebrations, you’ll even see confetti on the staircase which has been frozen in time stained into the timber. This space brings you closer to the cathedral ceilings and really let’s you take in all the beauty and craftsmanship the original church was built with.
The Salon
Oh how this little space melts our heart! If you were walking down the street in the 1890s you would have actually walked through this room between two buildings. One being the original church and the other being the Sunday school. Since it has been transformed into a little sitting room as part of the cafe. You can see the original outer walls of the church & the Sunday school with all its rustic charm.
The Playroom
A space for our beautiful mumma’s to relax in. This special space was the originally the church but was sold & turned green into the first Lilydale newspaper printers. It was then sold back to the church & used as a Sunday school. Since then, it’s seen many functions & weddings.
We now call it our play room.
Which is filled with u.me.play learning tools so mumma’s can eat & drink while little ones play.
The Courtyard
This charming little space will transport you to the 70’s when guests had outdoor weddings in the courtyard. In fact my grandad got married out here in the 90’s!
This space is perfect in the warmer months especially for guests who wish to visit with their furry friends.
Retail Market
A space filled with gorgeous products made by incredible women! This area offers our guests a chance to shop some of the Yarra Valleys most incredible maker products.
We’re also lucky enough to be able to sell our own collaborations, where we’ve had the opportunity to work with local small business owners.