Introducing the new owner of The Last Straw, Jennie Chen.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
There’s a new kid on the Keppel St block.
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The Last Straw café in Shepparton officially came under new ownership on Tuesday, July 1, with Jennie Chen at the helm.
After 12 years in the food industry, including owning Muffin Break locations in Riverside Plaza and Shepparton Marketplace, Ms Chen was brimming with ideas and enthusiasm to branch out.
“Once I saw this business for sale, I thought it was a good opportunity for me because I really wanted to step out of the franchise,” she said.
“I first came into The Last Straw 12 to 13 years ago — I was in Shepparton as a backpacker.
The Last Straw team — Vivien Chen, Kaitlyn Cassidy, Jennie Chen (owner), Hannah Hu, and Lena Untalan.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
“I know this café used to be really, really busy and they cooked lots of Thai food, but obviously, I’m not from Thailand, I’m from Taiwan.
“So, I thought, why not just buy the business? Then I can do something a little different.”
That sprinkle of difference is a more extensive menu.
Aiming to offer a fusion of Australian and Asian cuisines, Ms Chen plans to revamp the menu gradually.
Currently, inhalable sandwiches line the fridge, a special basil mince pork bowl is a freewheel of flavours, and, yes, The Last Straw is still serving its classic curries — plus, breakfast is now available.
For those stopping by for a coffee, a suitable pairing is a warm cinnamon scroll or loaded cookie.
Loaded cookies are baked fresh daily.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
“(We are) giving people more options,” Ms Chen said.
“For me, the most important thing is that it’s all made here ... we always keep it fresh.”
Despite the changes at this tucked-away eatery, one thing has kept true to its original owners’ vision: customers are the heart of The Last Straw.
“The atmosphere here is the same,” Ms Chen said.
“You come in, and everyone smiles, everyone greets each other.”
The Last Straw, located at 24-26 Keppel St, Shepparton, is open from 7.30am to 3pm Monday to Saturday and from 8am to 2.30pm on Sunday.
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