The Counter
What’s this? “Tables” constructed from pallets and other repurposed materials; potted succulents; drop-shadowed retro font work; a blackboard promising cold-drip coffee; and an all-girl team wearing sensible aprons? Yes, a small piece of hipster Surry Hills has sprung up in downtown Petersham, just ‘round the corner from Little Portugal (and on a street with free parking, no less)! The Cold Drip ($4) made on Coffee Alchemy (from Marrickville) is quite good: fruity, and perfect for a warm day. However if you find yourself sitting in a wind tunnel (as I did), consume yours in a Latte ($3.50) with their signature Beetroot Brownie ($4.50). Owner Mariella Traina (who you might remember from Balmain’s True Religion Espresso) has come up with a menu that peppers the usual all-day breakfast options with some excitement. Smashed Avocado ($15) and Tasmanian Smoked Salmon ($17) are both dressed up with 63 degree poached eggs. (These are the ones UK celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal calls “the perfect egg”.) On the sweeter side there are fluffy Hotcakes ($12), served in triplicate with rhubarb compote, mascarpone and crunchy pistachio praline; plus a counter of interesting baked goods. Explore them with The Hugo ($5), a summertime blend of lemon, mint, apple juice and panela (cane sugar).
The Counter
96 Audley Street, Petersham
Ph: (02) 9569 2949
Café $
