Chef & Crew – Moorebank

Vanessa:  Since moving from the Inner West to the South West a couple of years ago, I have enjoyed seeing an upturn in the cafe culture in the burbs.  Another newcomer has recently come on the scene with Chef & Crew opening a few months ago in Moorebank.  This family-run operation, headed up by the lovely Ash and Dan, raises the bar at the shopping village where it is located.

With a menu that offers more than your standard cafe fare, it is easy to see why the locals are impressed and intrigued.  The interior space is small but there is outdoor seating available.  A large mural featuring a cast of Superheros looms above the bench seating and sets a young and fun vibe as you enter the cafe.

Mr. M and baby V were my brunch dates that day and we arrived with an appetite.

I had my eye on the fritters that were the special of the weekend and they did not disappoint.  A loaded stack of sweet potato and zucchini fritters with chorizo, egg and a healthy drizzle of lemon aioli was the perfect combination of elements. The fritters were well cooked and light and the aioli added a great citrus element.

The popcorn cauliflower tacos ($17) are something I would normally have skipped over. Thankfully Ash recommended them as a must and I have to say we super impressed. The crunchy cauliflower  is served up amongst baked haloumi, kale and salsa. The dish comes as a serve of two and is ideal to share.

The loaded croissants hold up to their name with loaded being the operative word! The Benny Baked ($18) croissants laden with haloumi , spinach, bacon, poached eggs and hollandaise. This is one super sized, value for money brunch. Come at this with a big appetite and you will be beyond satisfied.

Perhaps the dish that left the most lasting impression was the one I had my reservations about. The vegan banana wheat pancakes ($17)  with caramelised banana, fruit and coconut yoghurt  is up there with some of the best I have had. You wouldn’t know it was vegan if you weren’t told. The pancakes are soft and the combination of sweet banana and coconut yoghurt is delicious. This is a must try if you go, vegan or non-vegan, it’s a crowd pleaser!

I was very impressed by the choice on offer that has an edge above the usual cafe offerings. The prices are reasonable, the owners are friendly and the chef is turning out some delicious dishes.  Keep this one on your radar to try!

Enjoy

Vanessa

*For Foods Sake dined as guests of the Chef & Crew