Lismore’s tasty new eateries
Lismore’s CBD is buzzing with a delicious line-up of new cafes and bars
THE flood early last year left devastation in its wake in Lismore but in the 18 or so months since, some fantastic new cafes and bars have emerged.
Adding to the flavour of the Lismore CBD, these businesses have helped make the town a foodie heaven.
Fresh Asian flavours
In the Star Court Arcade you will find the delicious Ghetto
Babe Street Eats. The cafe offers fresh Asian-inspired food such as pork belly pad thai, tom yum soup, nasi goreng and summer salads at very reasonable prices, as well as something to satisfy the sweet tooth. You can choose prepared treats from the cabinet or choose from an extensive menu.
French delights
Another hidden gem, The French Bench is tucked away in the Mathers Arcade off Woodlark St. Fans of the cafe declare you will find here the “best croissants outside of France” and the “perfect vanilla slice”, along with authentic crepes and gooey eclairs. Along with the pastries and coffee, you’ll also find something on the menu for lunch — savoury baguettes such as French tuna and egg, house-made quiche and hearty fresh salads.
Best chips ever
Around the corner in Keen St, you’ll find The Shoe Box Cafe, and, according to one diner, “the best chips on the planet.”
Fresh healthy food is on the menu, catering for vegans and those preferring gluten-free options. Vegan lasagne, southern fried chicken burgers and Venus love cakes are among fan favourites from the menu, along with the “best bacon and eggs I’ve ever had”. At 1/142 Keen St.
Wine time
Fancy reclining on a velvet chaise longue with the perfect margarita? Try Augustine’s wine bar in the Summerland Arcade, Woodlark St. Tucked away behind heavy drapes, passers-by will not even know you’re there as you imagine you’re sipping martinis in Toulouse-lautrec’s Paris. Along with creative cocktails and a thoughtful wine list, you’ll find delicious treats — sometimes oysters, sometimes American-style sticky ribs; marinated olives, soup and brioche toasties have also made an appearance on the menu. At 98 Woodlark St.
Beers and burgers
The Dirty Wilson boasts the most extensive list of artisan and craft beers you’ll find. This is the place to find some exquisite, locally made shrubs, spirits and wine.
To accompany your brew of choice, try the Boss Burg, Bao Karage, wings and fries, with a “smokin’ fine” sauce, slow-cooked pork sausages with pink sauerkraut, fresh dill pickle and American mustard, or perhaps the Love Boat salad (sweet potato, corn and slaw with char-grilled chicken) and chips is more your thing. 123b Keen St.
Top-notch coffee
The floods caused extensive damage to La Barraca in Keen St but that didn’t stop the owners from taking on a new venture in Molesworth St. Ristretto has become a hub for great takeaway coffee and a selection of healthy food options.
Pick up a muffin or stay for a lunch of pan-seared saddle tail snapper on a bed of vegie risoni with a smudge of chimichurri and a smear of capsicum puree. Devotees say the coffee is “perfect” and the service “impeccable”.
Creative vegetarian
The Garden Plate at 86 Magellan St serves wholesome vegetarian and vegan food with flair. Think smoothie bowls, vegan cakes and muffins, and vegan lasagne. “Creative, fresh and healthy” is how one fan describes it. There’s a pretty little courtyard out the back that’s a lovely spot for lunch.