It has occured to me that I need to make the most of my pram loving, big boy before baby number two arrives. And the fact that it is so easy to get out and about whilst I only have one baby (God only knows how RetroMummy does it all). So, in an effort to make the most of my last 10 weeks of ‘freedom’ – I will be reviewing one Canberra cafe each week until baby number two arrives… Let’s hope I don’t go too early.
My first pick was Autolyse in Braddon, because I have been in awe of BabyMacBeth’s instagram photos of Croatia (and items from the Croatian bakeries). Now I know that this cafe is owned by Croatian’s (because my husband is Croatian) and I was hoping to get a little taste of Croatia even though we can’t make it over there for summer this year.
Now – the meaning of Autolyse is; An extra rest period for a dough used by Artisan bakers to ensure optimum moisture and texture. And they provide the best hand-made breads and pastries, baked fresh all day from the best ingredients.
Now some of you may be looking and thinking – are you crazy taking a 15 month old out to lunch? And I say, people this is a great place to take your little ones as entertainment is provided.
We pulled up alongside the bakery window and Mr Moo was able to watch the men at work making all sorts of delicious bread and pastries. He was so interested in the sounds that the machines were making and the banging of bowls. I’m pretty sure they were also making some brightly coloured macaroons whilst we were there that had his attention.
I ordered the ‘special’ for myself and a serve of toast with peanut butter for Mr Moo. What’s great about Autolyse’s menu is that their food is seasonal and made fresh daily, so their menu changes regularly. And NOTHING on the menu is over $15!
These sardines with skordalia (a thick puree (or sauce, dip, spread, etc.) in Greek cuisine made by combining crushed garlic with a bulky base—which may be a purée of potatoes, walnuts, almonds, or liquid-soaked stale bread—and then beating in olive oil to make a smooth emulsion.) were delicious… and the fresh crunchy salad with them reminded me of something that you might get for lunch down by the water in Croatia.
We left with a delicious rare roast beef sandwich for Daddy and a special treat of their vanilla, cherry, chocolate cheesecake. Daddy is a big cheesecake fan and after I took this image, I wished that I had picked up a slice for myself – alas this was the last piece.
So if you’re in Canberra and are wondering of a good place to take your little one for lunch, why not think about Autolyse, because we really enjoyed it!
