Left Bower — Restaurant in Sydney

Left Bower is an interesting spot that suffers from inconsistency, which led to it falling short of 5 stars.

Stylised to look like a caravan (which judging by some photos on the walls, has some backstory with the owners), it's a truly unique place. They've clearly gone for a rustic / camping feel, which I get, but the mismatched cutlery and strange teaspoons dropped things down a peg for me. With proper cutlery I don't think I could fault the decor, it's really interesting!

Foodwise things were great! The menu is full of slightly odd twists on classic Aussie brunch dishes. A couple of them don't really describe how they're different, but those that do sound interesting. We tried a couple of dishes and both were excellent. Personally I didn't like the pesto on the side, but everything else was perfect and the bread in particular was really good.

The coffee was nice, albeit very strong at first (not necessarily a bad thing). The bigger problem however is that one coffee came quickly and with beautiful latte art, whereas the other one obviously got forgotten about, and after we asked for it towards the end of the meal it came quickly but looked pretty awful (see photos).

Staff were friendly, especially the owner / manager who seemed like a good guy. The server was new and was struggling with the till system, but hey, we've all been new at something, so no issue there. Good to see the manager supporting her too and not getting frustrated. Highchairs were also available but kept outside.

The place was incredibly busy with locals, especially those getting takeaway. Based on this, the quality of the food, and my personal opinions on the decor and service, I'd say I'll be back, but only...

Rude management at Left Bower, Sutherland.

I parked considerately in the first space outside Left Bower early today (Sunday, no restrictions on parking there), with rear bumper close to the parking restrictions sign so as to allow space in front for someone to park, when the person two spaces in front moved (as he had inconsiderately parked with a large gap between his van and the front parking marker, leaving not enough space for a car in between us).

English man (presume to be management, from last week’s visit there) asked me to move my car forward up against the other van. I explained why I had parked the way I had and that if I moved there wouldn’t be enough space to park behind me. He insisted I should move. I did as he asked. And his rude response (by tone and wording) was ‘It’s not hard is it?’ (Not ‘Thank you’)? I said I was in a rush to get to the train (visibly pregnant, which I also mentioned to him last week when ordering a decaf coffee - they don’t do decaf) and left, shocked.

Will never give him my business again. Not even on Sundays when he is the only one open that side of the station. Rude. Unnecessary. Sutherland is too small for business owners to...

Left Bower is a special kind of cafe that makes you feel welcome by the staff and at home while choosing from a variety of delicious options even including paleo, organic, gluten free, lactose free and vegan.

The service is unique in that the owner and staff are so friendly and make an effort to chat with you and remember you. We always feel at home when coming by the cafe. Even our dog gets the special poochini experience with lots of pats.

I appreciate that they mix up their menu but also have the perfect staple dishes. Bower Nights was also a fun Summer treat for the locals with fancy cocktails and tapas which we loved and can’t wait for again next Summer

If you’re visiting I’d recommend the vegan sticky chai with almond milk and honey, the Harty’s scrambled eggs or steak sandwich with their home made tomato relish oooft so good, and to top it off their delicious paleo gf df muffins. So many options to choose from that you know you’ll be back to try next time. 10/10...