Iconic Dishes Every True Shire Resident Must Try
How many have you ticked off your list?
Food trends come and go but these iconic Shire-based dishes have stood the test of time. A certain star power, some are new, some are sort of new and some have been wooing the Shire for years. Here’s our list of 13 oh-so-Shire dishes every local foodie should try.
Alphabet Street’s Massaman Curry
Anything you order off of the menu at Alphabet Street is bound to be a party in your mouth but their Massaman Curry has built a standalone reputation. The lamb is tender, the curry rich and the rice fluffy. What more could you want?! Scout tip: A side of roti bread is a must to enjoy with all that saucy goodness.
5/8 The Kingsway, Cronulla
Sealevel’s Seafood Platter
Sealevel seafood platters are as iconic as they come. They’re a special event staple and a fun way to celebrate. Fresh seafood with views over the ocean? C’mon, it doesn’t get better. Think Sydney rock oysters, fresh blue swimmer crab, Balmain bugs, smoked salmon, fresh and bbq prawns, scallops, beer-battered fish, barbecued octopus, crispy semolina squid, topical fruits and chips. Scout tip: Say yes to the optional lobster!
2 The Kingsway, Cronulla
Cony’s Guacamole
Few things in life hit like homemade guac and we’re calling it - Cony’s is the best we’ve ever had. The chips, also homemade and perfectly seasoned with Cony’s salt, can’t be replicated elsewhere. The biggest struggle is trying to share. Scout tip: Order extra chips for $5! You won’t regret it.
4/15 Surf Road, Cronulla
Queen Margherita’s Prosciutto Crudo E Rucola
All of Queen Margherita’s pizzas are made in accordance with the strict discipline of the 'Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana’ with each pizza cooked in 60-90 seconds at temperatures exceeding 450 degrees. The use of mechanical machines is not allowed, meaning all dough is hand-stretched. The result is something pretty special. The Prosciutto Crudo Erucola is the perfect understated pizza that allows this traditional method to shine whilst bringing freshness and flavour.
Shop 9, 2 Surf Road, Cronulla
Flour’s Cinnamon Scrolls
Flour's talented bakers have crafted an irresistible menu of pastries, loaves, quiches, cookies, and more, with their cinnamon scrolls always disappearing fast. A sweet symphony for your taste buds and a must-try for every local foodie, these scrolls pull crowds from near and far. Scout tip: if savoury is more your thing, opt for the housemade focaccia. The best part? You can watch every delectable treat being made fresh in their 'Doughroom,' where glass walls offer a view into the heart of their kitchen.
277 Willarong Road, Caringbah
Johnny Hu’s Deep Fried Ice Cream
A nostalgic classic that is undoubtedly the height of indulgence. Simple, delicious and with a modern twist - we’re talking top-notch vanilla gelato with butterscotch sauce. A guaranteed insta-worthy moment from the good people at Johnny Hu. Scout tip: The Pork Wontons in Chilli Oil are another must-try!
134 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
Rushi’s Sushi
This hole-in-the-wall cafe is one of The Shire’s most treasured hidden gems. Their Japanese-inspired brunch menu serves delight after delight but it’s their sushi that has stolen everyone's hearts. Not only is this dish aesthetic as all heck, but it’s also incredibly delish. Spicy salmon, avo, cucumber and special mayo served with edamame and miso soup. This stuff is addictive. Scout tip: Swing by on sushi Tuesday to score your sushi for just $18. That’s value, people.
Shop 2/25-35 The Kingsway, Cronulla
Loaf’s The Schnity
Next time you’re craving a humble sandwich, Loaf is it. It’s always a struggle to choose between their long list of combinations - there’s everything from vego, hambo, tuna, beef, chicken and more. According to Scout, The Schnity is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple yet delicious fusion you need to try. Made to order, you won’t find bread this soft anywhere else!
5/33 Surf Lane, Cronulla
55/990 Old Princes Hwy, Engadine
Giro Osteria’s Cacio e Pepe
Serving Nonna-level pasta, Giro’s Cacio e Pepe is just one of those dishes you have to try. A simple yet classic pasta dish, these guys have it down pat with a combination of the freshest Italian pecorino and homemade spaghetti. Mixed in a pecorino cheese wheel before serving, it’s a dish that impresses on all levels.
3/1 McDonald Street, Cronulla
Our Father’s Chilli Scram
As long-time fans of Our Father, this Burraneer gem holds a very special place in our hearts —especially their iconic Chilli Scramble. Think sourdough, roasted roma tomato, tomato pesto, eggs scrambled and their famous crispy chilli oil. Tis’ the chilli oil to end all chilli oils. Scout tip: Our Father's iconic chilli oil is available to take home, so don't leave without grabbing a container! We’ll take ten, thanks.
182 Burraneer Bay Road, Burraneer
Pino’s Tiramisu
No list of the Shire’s most iconic dishes would be complete without a nod to Pino’s Tiramisu. Found at the beloved Pino’s Cronulla, this classic Italian dessert is somehow elevated to new heights by this Shire newcomer. Scout tip: Not big on dessert? Try your luck and see if their famous cacio e pepe is on the menu. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
15 Surf Road, Cronulla
Kuroneko’s Spicy Ramen
In need of some comfort food? Kuroneko’s Spicy Ramen is here for you. The generous serving and hot broth is the ultimate tummy treat. Kuroneko’s tonkatsu broth is boiled for over 14 hours to achieve its signature taste. The spicy ramen is then topped with spicy miso pork mince, a soft-boiled egg and house chilli.
4/720 Old Princes Highway, Sutherland
Jensen’s souffle
Souffle is always a joy but there’s something about this dessert at Jensen’s that keeps us coming back for more. The flavour combinations may change but the souffle here will always remain one of the best in The Shire. Expect flavours like white chocolate ice cream, passionfruit meringue and white chocolate sherbet.
1/13 Freya Street, Kareela