You might think that finding the best places to eat in Parkhurst require little more than a stroll down the trendy ‘strip’, the iconic 4th Avenue that is brimming with street-side tables and very admirable eateries. And, well, you’d pretty much be bang on. Here’s a list of lovelies that will leave you swooning.
Bistro Vine
Shop 24E, 4th Avenue
Classically French cuisine is served up with aplomb at this quaint little spot. Duck to die for, famous ‘moules-frites’ (essentially mussels with chips, but so much more than that). Their desserts are also pretty delectable. With it’s bistro-chic ambience and decor, it’s definitely a great date spot.
Bottega
22D 4th Avenue, Parkhurst
Think of this as your cafe-style Italian home from home. Open early, they stay that way until the last person is waved out the door, and you can see why they have a loyal following of regulars. Book a table on the deck for sundowners and enjoy the character of the strip, along with their wide menu of bubbly, MCC and cocktail options. Then head inside for exquisite crab pasta; veal limone, fillet with porcini mushrooms or any of their classic desserts.
4th Avenue Coffee Roasters
Cnr 4th Avenue & 11th Street
This boutique coffee house could also be called The Home of Proper Coffee. Here, it’s roasted properly, brewed properly and each and every latté or cappuccino is flawlessly executed. Also, they have an oh-so cute and quirky hot pink coffee roaster, aptly dubbed ‘Legendary Pink’ and she’s one lady you have got to meet, and you can watch them roast your beans on the spot. Kiff neh? Basically, this coffee experience will leave you smiling all over your face.
Possum’s Bistro and Deli
Cnr 6th Street and 4th Avenue
With it’s busy-busy buzzing atmosphere, Possums is quirky, colorful and has a faithful following of epicurean enthusiasts who flock here regularly for out-the-box meals. They’re also proudly punting free-range and organic produce. ‘Food embroidered by imagination’ is their catch-phrase. So to eat? Try free-range pork belly salad with organic vegetables and a dijon-orange dressing; Duck breast on bok choy with pomegranate glaze and ginger potatoes. Their deli also has a whole range of goodies that you’ll want to take home with you.
The Jolly Roger
10 4th Avenue
It feels like the team at The Jolly have been serving up kick-ass pizzas for great value since forever. If you’re in the mood for a jol then head over and chug a pint and grab a slice, you won’t be disappointed. The old faithfuls, of whom there are many, swear by the home made chilli sauce and the Basil Mania Pizza (salami, fresh tomato, basil and ripe avocado). Also, enjoy half price pizza on Wednesdays and Sundays.
The Leopard
Cnr 12th Street & 4th Avenue
The unfussy, light, happy space is just the place to unwind before heading back to the hubbub of the afternoon at work, or for a leisurely weekend lunch. And then there’s the option of breakfast for lunch – anyone? Owner Andrew Burgener has poured her culinary heart and soul into this place, and you can taste the creativity in every bite. Oh, and they like to feed you meat from happy cows and such, always a major bonus. With the underlying Asian influence, I’m in my happy place before I’ve even sat down. Tuck into a ‘Vigour bowl’ that comes in bento-box fashion with layering of sticky rice, veg and either crispy duck or shiitake mushrooms to top it all off. To end? DIY hot choc, thankyouverymuch. Positively lip smacking.
Nice on 4th
Corner 4th Avenue & 14th Street
World famous toast pots, filled with crispy bacon and a poached egg, or smoked salmon and hollandaise. Need we say more? Except, get there early weekend mornings to get a table.
Vovo Telo
Cobbles Centre, 4th Avenue Parkhurst
The most beautiful, made-with-love artisanal breads and pastries Vovo Telo is just an all round happy-making story, the stuff legends are made of. Hippy-chic at it’s proudest, coffee’s that you’ll keep coming back for, and deliciously creative, clever and wholesome food.
And I’d love to hear from anyone who has great places to recommend that are off the infamous strip. Drop us a comment below.
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