While apples might be a Tasmanian staple, Launceston's newest eatery Mad Apple actually draws its name from a different fruit: eggplant.
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Mad Apple owners Naomi Nathan and Michelle Norton said some food-related research gave them the inspiration for the name.
"Ancient Romans used to call eggplant 'mad apple'. They believed if you ate too many you would go mad," Ms Norton said.
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However, the closest Mad Apple customers might come to madness is their taste buds going crazy for the vegetarian and vegan menu on offer at the Launceston cafe.
"We've both worked in hospitality, but this is totally new for both of us. We worked together previously and we're friends," Ms Norton said.
They decided to pool skills and open their own venue.
"I'm vegetarian and was finding it difficult working in places cooking meat so we decided to open our own place," Ms Nathan said.
"But we wanted [Mad Apple] to appeal to everyone. We have a really mixed, well-balanced menu."
Mad Apple opened in early August, but has become a favourite haunt for many in just weeks.
"We have regulars already," Ms Nathan said.
Besides the popular crispy lentil salad, noodles or rosti, Mad Apple serves soup, tarts, gluten-free brownies, muffins and vegan balls, plus Vacation coffee with a selection of dairy and dairy-free milk options.
"Our coffee is beautiful. We have a special blend just for us, roasted in Melbourne," Ms Nathan said.
Mad Apple's distinctive industrial-themed interior and exterior, with edible gardens leading the way in, was designed by Launceston architect Clare Dunlop to fit in with the existing building.
"It took a while to do. The building is old, so we tried to work with it," Ms Norton said.
"We've had lot of people commenting on the doors and windows.
"The doors open out completely, so it will be nice to sit outside when the weather warms up," she said.
Mad Apple seats around 45 people, including a dedicated kids' space inside where children can play freely.
The cafe is open seven days, with plans to open four nights a week soon.
Mad Apple is at 122 St John Street, Launceston, and is open between 8am and 4pm daily.
All menu items are available to eat in or take away.
Contact Mad Apple on 6334 1778 to make a booking or for more information.
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