Lox Stock & Barrel

I love a punny name, and while you won’t find two smoking barrels, you will be treated to smoked fish and warm hospitality in this cute Brooklyn-esque deli-diner. On a weekend it’s packed with hung-over locals and Brown Sugar regulars, checking out the new addition to the family. Breakfast and lunch (dinner coming soon) choices teeter between hefty and healthy – big salads, bagels and cured meats – conjuring up memories of weeknight Seinfeld episodes. We begin with the eponymous Lox (Smoked Salmon) Bagel ($12), a soft, chewy bagel packed with punch (and cream cheese). Smoked Mackerel Salad with Apple and Shaved Celery ($17) might not be for everyone, but our European waitress does a stellar job at convincing us. The gamble comes up trumps: the crème fraîche dill dressing, a diplomatic touch to a tricky flavour combo. The Salted Dulce de Leche Milkshake ($5.50) is dreamy and if it’s after midday, I implore you to try the cocktail version with cachaça. The Brisket Pastrami On Rye ($13) is boss – the salty meat and sweet Russian coleslaw had me territorially elbowing my dining partner away. For four bucks they’ll sling you a cup of chicken noodle soup – pass on the flu shot and just head to Lox.

Lox Stock & Barrel
140 Glenayr Avenue, Bondi
Ph: (02) 9300 0368 loxstockandbarrel.com.au
Cafe $-$$