PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAAlthough The Cooks Larder looks more Eastern Suburbs than Northern Beaches, it was actually one of the starters in the trend towards the combined cafe/gourmet food store. By night the open kitchen hosts intimate cooking classes that have attracted the likes of Damien Pignolet and Serge Danserau who were happy to while away a few days in Avalon while teaching classes over a glass or two of wine. The lunch menu is full of up-market dishes such as the delicious goats cheese bavarois with summer tomato salad, baby basil and parmesan crisp. Similarly, the breakfast menu shines with inventive dishes that are graced with a touch of European eccentricity.
The Cook’s Larder lives up to its name and resembles a gourmands dream pantry; it is well-stocked with yummy treats like china teas from Larsen Thompson and gourmet indulgences perfect for hot Avalon days like nostalgic Pat and Sticks ice cream sandwiches. There are shelves stacked with jars of wild hibiscus flowers and preserves, a cheese cabinet with double bries and washed rinds, and a red feature wall decorated with antique eggbeaters hanging in a line. The tables trickle onto the wide pavement so diners can enjoy the sunlight or nab a chair under the neighbouring paperbark tree.
Jennifer Miller