03/09/2026
A much-loved Ballarat eatery recently celebrated a special milestone, with Eclectic Tastes Café & Pantry marking 10 years under the ownership of Jane! 🎉
Jane took over the business from Margo Petit a decade ago, continuing the story of a café that has now been part of Ballarat’s hospitality scene for almost 25 years.
Reflecting on the milestone, Jane said hospitality had been part of her life for decades, despite once being convinced she would never work in the industry.
“I was the little girl who grew up around it, absolutely convinced I would never work in the industry,” she said.
“Yet here I am, more than 25 years after opening my first business, still feeling incredibly fortunate to do something I genuinely love.”
Jane said the past decade had not always been easy, particularly through covid, but the challenges had never taken away her love for the industry.
“Despite the challenges, I have never lost my love for welcoming people through the door, serving beautiful food and coffee and creating a place where people feel welcomed and at home,” she said.
She also paid tribute to the staff, suppliers, tradespeople, fellow business owners and family members who have supported the café over the years.
But much of her gratitude was directed towards the Ballarat community and the customers who have made Eclectic Tastes part of their lives.
“Whether you have joined us for your morning coffee, celebrated milestones with us or simply stopped by for a chat, you have helped create the community that has made Eclectic Tastes so special,” Jane said.
And perhaps the line that sums up the milestone best: “Celebrating 10 years of Eclectic Tastes feels less like celebrating a business and more like celebrating a community.”
Congratulations to Jane, her family and the entire Eclectic Tastes team on a wonderful decade! 👏🏻
