Lower East by RÜH — Restaurant in Wollongong City Council

A Disappointing Experience Under New Management

​Our recent visit to Lower East under its new ownership was extremely disappointing and a stark contrast to the service and good food we've loved here for many years.

​Although seated quickly, we waited 30 minutes for our coffees, which only arrived after we inquired about them. The wait for our food was even longer - 45 minutes passed as we watched other tables, who arrived after us, receive their meals. When we asked about our order, a kind male waiter went to check and upon returning honestly admitted to us that our ticket had been missed by the kitchen. He was very apologetic and offered to comp our coffees.

​However, the male owner then came out to us and started giving us a different story, claiming they were simply "very busy" with lots of food orders and we just needed to wait. This was the start of a series of frustrating excuses. Our food finally arrived a full hour after we were seated, and it was supbar. The hollandaise sauce, which used to be fresh, had been replaced with a packet sauce, and my toast was burnt.

​The experience at the register before leaving was equally unpleasant. The owner continued to make excuses, despite me clearly trying to just pay and go: this time blaming a sick chef for our wait. He seemed more interested in giving me a convoluted story than in simply letting us leave to get on with our day. To top it all off, the coffees we were promised for free were evidently not comped, and I believe we paid full price ($62.65) for 2x coffes and 2x meals (an Eggs Pacific and a Lower East Bowl).

​The lack of honesty and the poor quality of both the food and the service were incredibly disappointing. We will not be returning and will be following the previous owners to their new cafe venture in the Northern Suburbs.

Old review: Homemade hollandaise, in-house cured salmon, incredibly fresh produce and flavours. This place is the best food hangout...

My visit to Lower East Cafe in Wollongong was a remarkable experience, certainly deserving of a five-star rating. The cafe shines with its fantastic food and excellent coffee, striking the right balance between quality and taste.

The staff at Lower East Cafe were notably lovely. They managed to be incredibly accommodating for takeaway orders, even during busy periods, showcasing their dedication to customer service. This level of attentiveness and efficiency is commendable.

Nearby metered parking makes the cafe easily accessible. The location itself is splendid, situated in a vibrant local community that adds a unique charm to the cafe. This sense of connection with the local area enhances the overall experience.

In conclusion, Lower East Cafe in Wollongong stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking high-quality food and coffee, complemented by friendly and efficient service in a delightful community setting. It's a perfect example of a local cafe that makes...

My partner and I are regulars as we get coffee before work most days! We also decided to have brunch one Sunday earlier in March (pictured). Delicious food and coffee with a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere! Pictured: I ordered the avocado toast, my partner had the falafel toastie - both SO GOOD. We also both had iced coffees which were tasty with good quality coffee.

What I love: delicious food & coffee (takeaway or eat-in is both great) reasonably priced with large portions relaxed and comfortable atmosphere without a hint of pretentiousness super friendly & helpful staff who get to know you by name menu which includes options for those with dietary requirements such as vegan and gluten free indoor and outdoor seating quirky merch and funky coffee beans also for sale great location not far from the beach, and Crown St Mall, with parking and public transport close by, making it easy to drive, walk, cycle or catch the bus...