There is no doubt in my mind that most Sydney-siders have already visited this hot spot, but I felt it almost sacrilegious not to include Grounds of Alexandria for any visitors looking for great eats.
This Sydney staple opened in 2012 and even from the other side of the world I kept on hearing about how fabulous it was – when I finally had a chance to visit, I realised why.
Nestled into Alexandria – a former industrial precinct from the 1920s – The Grounds of Alexandria is a café, sustainable garden and coffee roastery, all rolled into one. Home to an artisan bakery, permaculture garden of heirloom vegetables, small animal farm and a coffee research facility, there really is something for everyone. Perhaps this is why this place is constantly teeming with fashionistas and photographers, artists and designers.
The decor feels earthy and rustic, with a mix of wood and iron finishes and glass-houses covered in crawling vines where you can sit for lunch.
The meals are lovely – but pricey (welcome to Sydney!) – and the coffee is good. They pride themselves here on their passion for produce, so the menu is seasonally driven and crafted with the finest ingredients.
If you’re on the run they do takeaway, but I certainly suggest sitting down and enjoying the vibe. Heads up – it’s very popular and often busy so be prepared to face the crowds and wait for a seat.
/ Breakfast – until 11.45 am
OUR SIGNATURE AVOCADO 16
Avocado, heirloom tomato, feta, za’atar, garden mint and micro herbs with The Grounds signature bread
COBIA KINGFISH 17
Ceviche of kingfish with avocado, fresh lime, chilli, coriander and seeded toast
THE BREKKIE BOARD 22
Two free range soft-poached eggs, chicken chipolatas, grilled asparagus, cherry tomato & basil salad, smoked salmon, fresh ricotta and toasted sourdough
HEALTHY PLATE 20
Rise and shine with The Grounds gluten free granola, vanilla bean organic yoghurt, fresh mixed seasonal berries, grapes, rambutan, selected nuts, dried organic mango crisps, fresh mango and a kale juice shot
/ Brunch and lunch – from 12pm
BREAKFAST BURGER 17
Bacon, fried egg, avocado, lettuce, cheese, tomato relish
and smoky mayo on a brioche bun with a side of polenta chips
SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD 20
Smoked chicken breast, vine ripened tomato, buffalo mozzarella, watercress, pine nuts, soft herb & fennel seed dressing
GRILLED SQUID FATTOUSH 18
Char-grilled squid with our fattoush salad packed with fresh chopped tomatoes, parsley, cucumber, mint, sumac and toasted flatbread
FRESH FIG SALAD 16
Figure this one into your plans. Gorgeous gorgonzola, asparagus, frisee, honey crumble and apple balsamic vinegar
PUMPKIN RISOTTO 18
Roasted butternut pumpkin and baby beetroot, shallots, Grana Padana parmesan and micro beetroot leaves (vegan option available)
THE GROUNDS REUBEN 21
Home-made corned beef & pastrami with gruyere and provolone cheese, sauerkraut, house-made pickle and The Grounds special Reuben sauce, all served in a soft house-baked pretzel roll with crunchy battered chips
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