Vanessa: My radio silence over the last few months has been due to the life-changing event of having a baby! Yes, my precious little boy arrived in July and it’s been a whirlwind and positive game changer. So it was rather fitting that my first foray back into the world of For Food’s Sake, cafes and an adult conversation was at the child-friendly cafe, Dear Delicious in Dulwich Hill.
This wholefood cafe offers a broad menu of meals created with healthy, nutrient-rich seasonal produce that not only tastes delicious but beautifully presented. On this particular outing, Bianca and I were joined by my visiting friend from London, Lithy, who happens to be a vegan and was delighted with the options for vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets.
We got our selves situated on one of the tables in the garden area to make the most of the glorious weather. Since becoming a mama there are certain things I think about when trying to venture out with bub in-tow, most importantly is the venue pram and child-friendly. So you can imagine my delight at the fact that Dear Delicious boasts a spacious, lush garden and shaded outdoor seating that is child (and dog) friendly. It’s a gorgeous little space featuring ample seating and fresh vegetables growing steadily in the garden.
First up we sampled one of their cold-pressed juices as well as one of the raw blends, both of which were refreshing and nutritious. I was really impressed by the range of beverage options on offer ranging from organic teas, coffee, milkshakes, juices and cocktails to name a few.
Opting for a main each and a shared dessert, we ordered a varied choice amongst the three of us.
I went for the “mushroom madness from the woods” ($18.95) and I’m very pleased I did. This was a generous portion of wild mushrooms that had been sautéed along with kale, pearl couscous, quinoa and two poached eggs to which I added a side of bacon. The mushrooms were aromatic and the couscous was cooked to the right amount of density. The only minor flaw, in my opinion, was that the kale was very oily. This is a hearty dish, particularly as it is served with a generous slice of Sonoma sourdough.
Lithy chose the “Mung falafel veggie burger” ($15.95) which is loaded with falafel, avocado, kale, hummus and cultured vegetables. The staff was very accommodating in swapping out the milk buns for sourdough to ensure that the dish was 100% vegan. Another substantial serve with four or five crispy falafel and packed with vegetables. Lithy had the good foresight to order a plate of chips to share that was absolutely delicious. Twice cooked with the right amount of salt, they were the perfect accompaniment.
Bianca, who is currently embarking on a pancake quest with gusto, naturally opted for the sour cherry lamington pancake with wattleseed cream. ($17.50). The pancakes themselves were light and fluffy with three in the serve. The taste was definitely reminiscent of a lamington, however, the chocolate sauce was fairly dense and we felt lessened the overall taste of the pancakes.
To finish off we shared the strawberry rose dear mess ($15.95) which was a perfect way to round off our meals. This beautifully presented dish consisted of rose infused coconut yoghurt, strawberry and coconut gel, lemon curd and coconut soil topped with colourful edible flowers. This was pure perfection both visually and gastronomically. Light, fresh and vibrant, it is a dish that is memorable on many levels.
We walked away feeling content and very pleased to have experienced Dear Delicious. It really is the perfect suburban oasis that is staying true to its motto: Eat healthy & Be Happy! If it’s a wholesome, nutritious meal you are after in a lovely relaxed setting, I can’t recommend it enough. I look forward to returning in the near future with more mums and bubs in-tow!
Enjoy!
Vanessa
Photos by Bianca
*For Food’s Sake dined as guests of Dear Delicious, however, all opinions are our own
