Botanica Garden Cafe, Waverton

Just minutes away from the high rises of North Sydney, Waverton is a quaint suburb with charm. Botanica Garden Cafe inhabits the quiet community with plenty of character to match. Complete with an eclectic mix of recycled furniture, it’s a garden wonderland that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We sit down with Anna and Nathan, who are focused on bringing it back to basics. It’s all about staying real, organic and environment friendly. Anna also stresses that it’s the simple pleasures that are the most important. As such, the food is comforting and homely.

I love how it feels like a home away from home at Botanica. It’s even dog friendly – a husky says hello as I make myself comfortable and eat a Salmon Delite at a nearby table. The Salmon Delite is a hefty mound of of fluffy scrambled eggs with smoked salmon on our brioche bun with a dollop of sour cream and chives. Delicious.

We try B’s signature sandwich, a striking construction of char grilled scotch fillet, melted Swiss cheese, homemade pickles and homemade beetroot relish, served on Brasserie Bread schiacciata with a side of lovely coleslaw. The sandwich is full of punchy flavours and vibrant colours. And it’s perfect with the triple cooked hand-cut chips, which are covered in delicious herbs and spices, then served with homemade tomato relish. Loving the cute little frying basket the chips come in!

You can also get sandwiches on our sourdough and quinoa & soya loaf, or a fruity breakfast of date & apricot toast with ricotta and honey.

Botanica have just celebrated their first birthday! Say hi (or happy birthday) on their Facebook page.