Outfield

Overview

After spending "many hours kicking the footy or pushing the kids on a swing and wishing we could get a good coffee nearby," Inner West locals Caleb and Belinda Maynard decided to make their hopes a reality. And the 1950s former baby health clinic in the outfield of Ashfield's Yeo Park was the perfect place to do just that.

The duo converted the heritage-listed building into an "extension of people's backyards" where locals could get quality food and coffee in a relaxed parkside setting, and Outfield was born.

Since opening in April 2019, the Inner West cafe has become a central meeting point for the community. "Bringing that cafe culture to the park means people will linger, connect and socialise...it's a no-brainer for anyone with kids of all ages," explains Caleb. "They can cry, play, laze about and drop their ice blocks on the grass." With no limit to outdoor seating, blankets to borrow and lots of friendly rounds of cricket between strangers, locals are making the most of the outdoors at this grassy eatery.

The Outfield menu is, conveniently, a modern take on picnic fare, with a touch of green on every plate. There are hints of native ingredients like lemon myrtle and a focus on gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options.

There are also bagels with options including smoked salmon with lemon myrtle, capers, labneh and herb salad; mortadella with cheese, egg and a jalapeño pickle sauce; as well as a toasted mushroom panini with peptic butter and greens and a fritter bowl with corn and chickpea fritters, avacado, seeds, boiled eggs and tomato relish. 

Images: Kimberley Low

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