kid-friendly zetland Archives

CLOSED ———————–

I just moved into our new place in the inner Eastern Suburbs, and discovered the (also new to the ‘hood) Nan’s Place in Zetland. This cute little cafe is certain to be our new regular hangout. I really appreciated how sweet the staff were when I arrived one afternoon with a friend, her 3-month-old and my 3-year-old in tow.

We had a lovely window seat, which meant I could sit on the end and stop Miss E from escaping. E really enjoyed looking out the window behind us and waving to the people trying to eat their lunch.

The babyccino was a choice of a tiny takeaway cup or glass.

For our meals, I ordered myself the Nutella Filled French Toast ($7), and E the Vegemite and Two Cheese Toastie ($7.50). My dining companion ordered the Poached Organic Hens Eggs ($10) with Caramlised Fennel and Confit Garlic Hash and House Hot Sauce ($5).

Our food arrived quickly, and was all well-cooked. My French toast was decadently perfect, and E’s Vegemite toastie was absolutely delicious. Lucky for me she only ate half, so I was able to sample some of her meal too.

Nan’s Place has a new menu coming in the next few weeks, and will be opening up an outdoor garden eating area too. We will definitely be back to try the outdoor garden space.

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: Yes (outside).
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

Nan’s Place
2a Portman St,
Zetland, NSW
Phone: (02) 8084 0731
Hours: Tue-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat 8am-3pm, Sun 9am-2pm

The rumour mill has been spinning with whispers that Nan’s Place, a new café in Zetland, serves up food like your nan’s but only (gasp) better and with a twist. Never one not to investigate a promising food rumour, Baby Lukas, my husband and I decided to check out Nan’s this past Saturday.

Looking into Nan's from the outside. — Looking into Nan’s from the outside.

Expecting gaudy, lacy tablecloths on which comfort food like heavily buttered scrambled eggs are served, the first thing that strikes you as you walk up t0 the understated corner café, is a reminder that this is the inner-city: Nan-inspired it may be, but the décor is trendy with food offerings to match.

The interior is small, with a main circular table for communal eating. We decided to eat outside, next to a family enjoying what looked to be a dynamite breakfast. Plus, we figured if Lukas started acting up, his noise would blend with the other kids’.

Looking at the menu, I was intrigued by the offerings and knew I had to try the Half Ruby Grapefruit, Coconut Sugar and Toasted Almonds ($6) with Brickfield’s Sourdough Toast with Preserves ($5). Like any clever wife, I convinced my husband to order another dish I wanted to try: Poached Rock Chic Hen Eggs ($10) with Tuscan Kale, Green Garlic and Garden Herbs ($5).

Poached eggs ($10) with Tuscan kale, green garlic and fresh herbs ($5). Photo by Emily Staresina. — Poached eggs ($10) with Tuscan kale, green garlic and fresh herbs ($5).

Brickfield's toast with butter and strawberry jam ($5). Photo by Emily Staresina. — Brickfield’s toast with butter and strawberry jam ($5).

Ruby grapefruit with toasted almonds and coconut sugar. Photo by Emily Staresina — Ruby grapefruit with toasted almonds and coconut sugar ($6).

While we waited for our food, Baby Lukas made friends with the kids at the next table, as well as the dog tied to the post nearby. By making friends I mean stealing their toys, attempted food theft and pulling the poor dog’s tail. The staff weren’t phased by weaving between children to deliver breakfasts to patrons, which was nice to see, and were more than happy to interact with them in between orders.

Our food came, and I’m pleased to confirm the rumours were true: served on mismatched plates (just like at your grandma’s!), the food was fantastic. The eggs were poached just right (runny but not liquid) and the strawberry jam had real chunks of berry. As for the coconut sugar on the grapefruit – well, let’s just say there’s no going back.

The boys eating breakfast. Photo by Emily Staresina. — The boys eating breakfast.

The one thing missing from making this a total coup was that there weren’t any highchairs, which meant that we had to take turns eating. No big deal, as any seasoned parent knows, but worth considering if you can’t do without one.

Last bite: if you’re looking for a fabulous new kid-friendly café where the food is great and your kids are treated well, look no farther than Nan’s Place.

Highchairs: No.
Stroller storage: Limited. If you don’t need one, don’t bring one.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No, but kids won’t starve.

Nan’s Place
2a Portman Street, Zetland
Phone: (02) 8084 0731
Prices: $$
Hours: Tues-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm and Sat 8am-3pm
Get Directions

kid-friendly zetland

Nan’s Place; Kid-Friendly Cafes, Zetland

Nan’s Place: Kid-Friendly Cafes, Zetland, Sydney