Overview
If you've ever been to Hobart, then you know all about Sweet Envy — the Tasmanian pastry shop is regarded as the best in town, and for good reason. Now, head pastry chef Alistair Wise is gracing Sydney with his new pop-up venture Drury Lane, which is currently operating out of caffeine haven Brewtown Newtown. The partnership seems to be a natural one, combining top-notch coffees and some damn good pastries for the ultimate cafe experience.
The menu is much the same as Sweet Envy, including savoury and sweet options that, until now, have only been available in Hobart. We're most excited for Wise's pecan sticky bun, topped with almond cream and salted caramel ($7); these decadent buns are sure to be the major draw for this Newtown newcomer.
Apart from cafe classics like cakes, cookies and lamingtons ($6), Wise is also turning out some interesting options like the pistachio croissant — which adds rosewater and frangipane to the typical French pastry ($ 6.50) — and the Witherspoon, a chocolate shortcrust with plum compote, peanut mousse and pretzel topping ($7). The posset jar ($7), layered with lemon cream, fruit and crumble, is a non-pastry option.
As with any good bakery, there are daily specials on offer, including a range of rotating pies and rolls, from cauliflower and cheese to a 'tongue and cheek' pie, as well as a chicken and sausage gumbo ($8 each). Drury Lane is also pouring coffees from Brewtown's new Marco SP9 — an extremely fancy filtered coffee pour over machine that is sure turn out some excellent brews. A speciality pastry and a cuppa? Don't mind if we do.
Drury Lane has popped up upstairs at Brewtown Newtown, 6-8 O'Connell Street, Newtown. It's open pen Thursday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm for the near future. For more info, visit their Facebook page.