Cambridge Lane Espresso

Serving the seaside suburb of Manly, Cambridge Lane Espresso is a charming coffee nook tucked down a laneway off Cambridge Parade.

This latest venture from Simon Wescombe - Qwerk and Hello Garry are some of Simon's past projects - is a bright and airy cafe, simply styled with metal chairs, cast iron and timber tables and pressed tin trim on and behind the bar. Outside, tables and stools fill the tiny laneway while a dish of fresh water awaits four-legged friends.

The concise menu includes breakfast favourites like banana bread with cinnamon espresso butter and Bircher muesli with green apple, dates, walnuts, almonds and raspberries; while those seeking further sustenance can opt for field mushrooms, spinach and pine nuts sautéed in garlic and pesto served on sourdough or spicy slow-cooked beans, herbed sour cream and parmesan on sourdough.

The excellent coffee is Genovese while cold refreshments include milk shakes served in jars and Emma & Tom's organic drinks.

by Deb Lidster 

Since our visit the menu has expanded.