Jardin St James

Located right opposite to the Hyde Park Barracks’s, this cafe is a hidden gem. The reason why I said it’s a hidden gem because one of my friend and I were here other day and we never noticed a cafe. Couple of days later, another friend of mine took me here for breakfast. The staff is absolutely courteous and more French. They have a tiny take away counter at the entrance and a large seating area on the left side of the church. I loved the way they provide a shots glass full of sparking water along with coffee. This actually helps you gulp down any of the coffee taste before you taste their delicious food. I have tried my first French Galette and I am glad it is one of my favourites. I have tried both Salmon and Bacon Galettes. Though their almond croissant is small, it had this rich nutty taste and delicious filling. Would love to visit again.

Perfectly placed oasis hidden under Saint James Anglican Church under the bustling sidewalks of Macquarie and Philip streets!! Lovely coffee scrummy food, beautiful friendly fast service in an unique environment with plastered arched rooves and sandstone walls. Unfortinately the clean but old toilets are downstairs and hard to navigate (even for for the able bodied) simply due to the age of the building and there's even a lovely prayer chapel where you can light a candle end sit amongst the remains of those long departed and send up a prayer or 2. Comfy padded pews and chairs, Pod to mine town one on a 1/2 made our social distance but you can always move to the next alcove it's worth it just to come down just for the food and ambience!! Don't stride past...drop in and have a coffee at list up top to keep these guys afloat during Covid!!

My new favourite cafe in this part of Sydney. Great food, delivered quickly and efficiently by friendly and knowledgeable staff. The setting is fantastic with plenty of space between tables and the alcoves (crypts) help manage the noise. The lunch menu offered a variety of light and more substantial meals, supported by an excellent blackboard menu. Value for money was great and we never felt rushed (or neglected).