Vanessa: I have previously mentioned since moving to South West Sydney two years ago, how I have been on a mission to uncover hidden gems in the burbs. Well, once again the suburbs have delivered with Steam Brothers Coffee, located in Menai. Two years ago had you asked me where Menai was I would have said “no clue”, but now I know it as a family friendly suburb where Steam Brothers fit right in and has been welcomed by the locals.
With a modern fit out and a strong focus on coffee, the team behind this cafe know a thing or two about serving some popular menu items that will win over their patrons. inconspicuously located, it is easy to miss it if you aren’t on the lookout. My dining partner that day was “Ms Muges” along with Baby V, naturally. We asked the team to suggest some of their popular dishes for us to try and it’s easy to see why they are so.
I’m always a sucker for a cold drip coffee, no matter the weather, and the Ethiopian blend of the day was perfection. The coffee was just the right strength as well with no bitterness.
Now the idea of loading a butter-laden croissant with poached eggs, smothered in hollandaise sauce and rich smoked salmon may have some people yearning for the treadmill, but the “eggs benny ($16) is definitely worth the calories. The croissant was flaky and crisp, the eggs perfectly poached and the hollandaise was creamy and delicious. This is a calorific meal. no doubt, but it is also unique, a great blend of flavours and worth a try.
The Reuben ($14) is without question a must to try, possibly one of the better ones I’ve had in Sydney. Thick slices of pastrami with generous slices of melted cheese encased in toasted sourdough makes for a hearty serve, particularly accompanied by a serve of crunchy chips.
The halloumi salad ($14) is definitely the healthier option of all our choices.With Israeli couscous, cucumber, avocado and tomatoes, it is substantial and I can see why its a popular choice for something lighter.
Now the hotcakes ($14) for me were also a standout. A very generous portion (particularly for the price) with four fluffy, steamed hotcakes that were smothered in a berry compote with whole blueberries and ice-cream to boot. My only comment was perhaps there were too many berries for my liking but the texture of the pancakes was superb.
I must say for the quality, taste and portion sizes, the menu is extremely well-priced which further adds to its appeal. Definitely, a place to add to your next outing if you are in or around the area. The Reuben…don’t overlook it!
Enjoy!
Vanessa
Photos by Vanessa
*For Food’s Sake dined as guests of Steam Brothers Coffee
The Reuben looks really impressive! Certainly one to rival many cafes closer to the CBD. I’m also constantly amazed at how affordable cafe food can be the further in the suburbs they are.
The hotcakes looks good! I used to live near Menai and wished this cafe was there before.