Sassafras Of Paddington

Sassafras of Paddington was one of Brisbane’s first cafés to serve the ever-popular ‘all-day breakfast’ and is still dishing up signature brunch dishes in their leafy converted Paddington weatherboard cottage today.

The long running café took its name from the species of deciduous trees, the roots of which were originally one of the key ingredients for sarsaparilla.

In addition to vintage suitcases and sunbeam mix masters that boast some of the history of the café, Sassafras stocks drinks close to its roots, Hank’s root beer and Bundaberg sarsaparilla, along side freshly squeezed juices, frappes, smoothies and a hot selection of tea and coffee by both local and interstate roasters.

Regulars from almost two decades earlier still make their way through the eclectic front room, library dining area and out to the back of the child-friendly café for a favourite backyard spot beside the fish pond, potted plants and under the shady umbrellas.

However the indisputable hook for Brisbane residents are the generous breakfast, brunch, lunch and everything-in-between dishes for those who don’t want to live by the rule of ‘breakfast before 10am.’

For breakfast look out for dishes such as Ricotta Hotcakes, their legendary Eggs Benedict (6 varieties), Crispy Corn Fritter or the Brekky Burger while for Brunch there's Smoked Local Mushrooms; Nourish Bowl; Pastrami or Double Cheese & Veg Sammich and Sassy Taco with Chips.

Meanwhile, for something lighter (for both kids and adults) there's Wholly Crumpets (1 or 2); 1/2 serve bacon & eggs; Little pancakes or walnt and banana bread.

Taking home a box of cakes is set to become a tradition with their rise of vegan and gluten free goodies that boast unique flavours, getting everybody back in for seconds.

Sassafras is a landmark of Brisbane’s chic and retro suburb, which prides itself on great meals made in-house for the love of food.

Need to Know - Sassafras has a broad range of vegan and gluten-free options and offer private backyard functions.

Nice to know - Sassafras Canteen is dog-owners heaven, with four-legged friends welcome to join their owners in the rear courtyard. 

By Katherine Lamont