9 Hidden Cafes In The Shire To Put On Your Radar
The secret’s out on these little-known gems
The Pan & Stone, Kirrawee
If you’re the type to go back again and again to that one brunch spot, it’s time to expand your horizons. While there’s no question that the Shire’s better-known cafes are that way for a reason, there are a few hidden gems dotted around our leafy streets that you may be yet to try.
We’ve taste-tested the eggs, slurped on the coffees and perused the pastries to bring you nine of the Shire’s best hidden cafes to put on your radar.
KIN
Whipping up dishes as pretty as they are delicious, this Burraneer gem is well worth a visit. Breakfast blends easily into a boozy dinner with a menu that encourages you to take your time; expect to find everything from pimped-out avocado toast to lamb shoulder, with a great cocktail menu to match.
Brick Pit Espresso
While it may not be hidden in a physical sense, Brick Pit Espresso is one of those undiscovered gems that we think more people should know about. With White Horse Coffee beans in the machine and a menu packed with both classics and fresh takes on breakfast and lunch, this soon-to-be favourite features a sun-drenched, alfresco style courtyard and an uber-cool interior setting.
Yawn Coffee Project
Nestled in the tranquil streets of Yowie Bay, Yawn Coffee Project is a hidden gem that’s super cool, casual, and chic. With a delightful interplay of white, navy, and timber throughout, this cafe’s aesthetic is both inviting and stylish. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or your next coffee date, Yawn offers a fun menu that will keep you coming back for more.
The Pan & Stone
Part-cafe, part-plant nursery, this leafy cafe brings double the joy. Although it’s situated in the quiet backstreets of Kirrawee, The Pan & Stone has become so favoured among locals that it has recently expanded to a second location in Mortdale. Come for the house-made nutty granola and leave with a new plant baby for your collection - it’s really the ideal way to spend a morning.
SixSmith
SixSmith may be located in Cronulla, one of the Shire’s most well-known suburbs, but we’re willing to bet you haven’t spent enough time there, if any at all! This is a cafe for those who value home cooking; the meals are lovingly made and hearty, and feature the freshest ingredients around - usually locally sourced. Pair with a freshly-brewed coffee (also a house blend).
Milkhouse, Kurnell
Much like the suburb it’s located in, Milkhouse is sweet, petite and sunny. Offering freshly-baked cakes, cookies and slices, delightful frittatas, sandwiches bursting with all the greatest hits and healthy breakkie bowls, there’s something for everyone at this cute little spot. Best followed by a stroll along Kurnell or a drive up into Cape Solander to sight some whales!
Oli’s Miranda
Oli’s cafe in Miranda is light, bright and kid-friendly. The menu features only the freshest and most colourful ingredients, and includes popular picks such as chilli scrambled eggs and a salmon bagel for breakfast, and lamb gyros and chicken bao buns for lunch. The best part? An entire menu section dedicated to three types of fries… yup!
Backstreet Brew Kirrawee
Considering this cafe is named for its backstreet location, we consider it worthy of an addition to our list. Operating out of a minimalist, airy space, these guys will have you set up perfectly for breakfast, lunch, or even a cheeky takeaway sambo. If you’re a fan of Caringbah’s Laneway Cafe, this one, its sister cafe, is well-worth a try.
West End Espresso
A simple menu and focus on great coffee are the foundations of this no-fuss hole-in-the-wall cafe near Jannali station. It’s on the quiet side of the street, making it lesser known, but if you’re a fan of an easy menu that doesn’t overwhelm and really, really good sandwiches, this is one to add to your list. Hot tip: if you’d prefer to takeaway, grab your favourite menu pick and head down to the sunny Como Pleasure Grounds.
Posted: August 2024