Waterloo Has a New Coffee-Fuelled Brunch Spot

Waterloo residents, your wake-up call just got a whole lot more fun. Introducing the 'coffee slider': a luxurious combo of ice cream, honey and brioche. It’s one of many signature creations to be explored at brand new Bourke Street cafe Barista and Cook.

The eatery — which opened last week — is owned and operated by one Mr. Alan Thompson. Yes, we're talking the DJ-turned-cafe master who previously brought Bangbang Espresso to Surry Hills. At Barista and Cook his passion for coffee continues, thanks to a dedicated brew bar serving filters and pourovers, including Chemex, V60 and single origin beans. Meanwhile, Gypsy Espresso will be taking care of your more standard coffee options.

According to Thompson, his vision is driven by simplicity and excellence. He describes Barista and Cook’s offering as "beautifully presented, contemporary cafe food made with love and quality, barista-made coffee".

Thompson is working closely with head chef Adrian Borg, who’s spent a decade in fine dining joints around the world, and even ran the kitchen in Ashfield’s Excelsior Jones for a while. His ever-changing breakfast and lunch menus are driven by seasonal produce and what's healthy. Every element, except for the Brasserie Bread, is made on the premises.

On the breakfast menu you'll find everything from chia coconut pudding to smoked trout kedgeree with spiced rice, boiled eggs, citrus yoghurt and coriander, and char-grilled pork belly with chilli fried eggs, crushed edamame and puffed black rice.

You’ll be enjoying all this tastiness inside a massive, light-filled space, fitted out by Giant Design. Drawing on Scandinavian aesthetics, they’ve created a bright, clean-cut atmosphere to reflect the menu. Think white-washed walls, lush hanging plants and oodles of comfy seating. A great setting for devouring those aforementioned coffee sliders.

Barista and Cook is located at 834 Bourke St, Waterloo. It’s open Monday to Friday, 6am - 4pm and Saturday and Sunday, 8am - 3pm. For more info, visit baristaandcook.com.au.