Every bite tells a story | Bill and Beat’s Café a beacon of resilience and flavour in Mooroopna

By Jan Phillips

Jun 27, 2024

*Through the windows of Bill and Beat’s with Chris Buzza and Paul Phillips.* Photo by Contributed

Dive into the heart of the Goulburn Valley’s culinary scene with Jan and Paul Phillips. Every Friday, the pair will serve our readers with their knowledge of our communities’ restaurants, cafés and pubs — one plate at a time.

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Mooroopna offers a unique charm and appeal. The town boasts a close-knit community with strong social bonds and loyalty to local initiatives.

The quality of life is enhanced by a peaceful environment and natural beauty. As a ‘river town’, Mooroopna has a complex relationship with the river, which is both beautiful and destructive. The recent floods are an example of this, having devastated much of the town, but the community’s resilience and support showcased its dynamic spirit.

Many businesses were significantly affected by the floods, including Bill and Beat’s Café. Though the café itself was not flooded, it played a significant role in supporting those who were.

We are pleased to highlight this wonderful café and its friendly, attentive staff. Established six years ago, Bill and Beat’s is integral to Mooroopna’s culinary scene and is known for great food, good service and warm hospitality. Owner Chris Buzza said the café was named after the former owner’s family friends, Bill and Beatrice, who embody the welcoming atmosphere they sought to create.

Housed in the old Commercial Hotel building, much of the decor is made from reclaimed wood. The ambience, with polished concrete floors and innovative lighting, is exceptional.

They help the local economy by employing 18 local people, and they are open seven days a week. Bill and Beat’s blends urban eatery vibes with historical charm. Chris Buzza, a renowned chef with 20 years of experience, infuses his love for global cuisine into the menu, offering hotel classics, European masterpieces and Asian-influenced dishes.

*Paul and Jan Phillips outside Bill and Beat’s.* Photo by Contributed

The boys working the kitchen, including Aaron Maidment, Chris Buzza and Stewart Randell. Photo by Contributed

The dream team Aaron Maidment, Stewart Randell, and Chris Buzza in action. Photo by Contributed

*Bringing joy to the table, one plate at a time with Chris Buzza and Stewart Randell.* Photo by Contributed

The varied menu caters to all tastes. We tried the steak sandwich, which was tender and delicious, and a hamburger with pineapple, a classic ingredient.

They also offer comprehensive catering services for events ranging from weddings to funerals and everything in between.

They can cater for more than 100 people in their main room and up to 60 upstairs. We can attest to the varied and wonderful options available in this terrific local café.

We have visited Bill and Beat’s for Rotary Club dinners, guest speaker events, annual general meetings, and quick catchups with friends. We both agree that the consistency and quality of their food has always been maintained, making it a lovely place to go. It’s also an easy bike ride or walk from Shepparton.

The coffee is excellent, and the options are plentiful, making Bill and Beat’s one of Mooroopna’s finest eateries.

Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 7am to 3pm; Saturday and Sunday from 8.30am to 3pm.

Food pricing for Bill and Beat’s, rated by Jan and Paul: $$

(Expensive $$$, moderate $$ good value $)