Arrived yesterday at around a quarter to 1. A few laps around the block we found parking on Crown St. We walked down on a perfect Summer's day to check out the food scene on this stretch.
We see a few wine bars, an Italian resto, Mrs Palmer's jerkin the gherkin sign selling sandwiches, Thai takeaway place, another Thai Viet resto that was closed for good? A few pubs opposite each other and two Chinese noodle dumpling place opening at nights only.
For a Thursday lunch time, there were a handful of patrons dining along the stretch of the street. Some in suits, some not. Nearly all eateries had lunchtime offerings competing for your hard earned $12.50.
However, not us. My dining partner was interested in the breakfast platter at Philosophy's at $29 per person, designed for two. I told him it was too much for us, and wished him luck should he had ordered it.
We sit outside, on the footpath, next to an open storm drain. I picked the spot, but hadn't noticed it until a whiff of the surrounding air. Not an issue, I thought. Scanning the sights, the atmosphere appeared to have picked up from the mandatory hibernation endured by all.
Rosti Breakfast was what I wondered because of it being home made, along with an Immunity juice. Two poached eggs, bacon, haloumi slices, broccolini and half a charred tomatoe. Not bad value for $19. $8 for the juice, and it was money well spent. My friend's scrambled eggs, avocado on toast were slightly overcooked, and wasn't particular exciting in taste or look. So, there wasn't anything else worth mentioning.
The menu was quite varied, and offered alot. Which just means it just gets overwhelming for someone like me. Leaving the Cafe, my friend decides to saunter over to Mrs Palmer's to order a takeaway sandwich to go. I wonder how he liked it. We'll...
Read moreThe food was delicious, with generous servings. We ordered the Philosophy Big Brekkie and Cheesy Scramble which were prepared with care and attention to flavour.
The highlight of our visit was definitely the coffee - it was amazing. Rich, flavourful and expertly brewed, it was the perfect complement to our meal. The service was fast and efficient. However, we would have appreciated a bottle of service water instead of just a glass each.
One unique aspect of Philosophy Cafe that we loved was their commitment to supporting local artisits. The cade showcases a diverse rang of artwork, which is available for purchase. It's a wonderful way to promote local talent and add to the cafe's vibrant atmosphere.
One thing to note though is the small issue I encountered with the bathroom facilities. The toilet seat has a poor design and does not stay up, which can be quite...
Read moreThere is a new woman in the staff there who charged me beforehand for a sit-down meal, when the usual policy at this cafe is that they lead you to a table, get your order, and you pay at the counter at the end of the meal. I know this because I've been coming here regularly for 3-4 years.
Every so often this happens in Sydney and it makes me very uncomfortable and self-conscious that they want me to pay them up-front when I see all the tables around me paying at the end. And then I have to also convince them at the end of the meal that I have paid if it's not the same person working the counter.
Please address this issue with the new staff and remind the older staff not to do this, or I am more than happy to pick another regular spot for my lunch salads from the infinity other cafes nearby in...
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