Southside Charmers - CLOSED
A Redfern diner serving up cocktails and top-notch Mexican fare — all day.
Overview
While Redfern has retained a sense of inner-city grit, the area is undeniably becoming more upscale. Especially when it comes to wining and dining. Now, having moved into the former Eathouse Diner's digs on Chalmers Street, is Southside Charmers.
It's a lively, colourful and full-of-character diner, which seats 50 inside and 20 outdoors. It's the kind of place you'll find Redfern locals rubbing shoulders with a more transient crowd on weekends — a neighbourhood go-to. So, it should come as no surprise, that the duo behind Southside are also the folks behind other neighbourhood favourite, Bart Jr.
Unlike its Euro-inspired bar brother however, this spot on Chalmers Street is open for breakfast, lunch and, on most days, dinner. Following a produce-focused ethos, the menu is fresh, flavourful and inspired by Mexican cuisine and its influence on Miami and southern Cali. Dishes like the Pablo Rice Bowl with mushroom, chorizo, greens and egg, Southside's take on a Cuban sandwich and breakfast tacos are obvious nods to the Latin American influence. Come 5pm, you'll be feasting on slow roasted salmon, charred cauliflower and a variety of tostadas.
As well as nourishing food, expect fresh juices, well-executed smoothies, kombucha and Five Senses coffee alongside some cocktails served. You can sip on espresso martinis, bloody marys and, of course, southsides all day long. Or, as the day grows later, opt for a pet nat, natural vino or a local brew.
Images: Kitti Gould