Profiled by de Groots Media Anouk may be a newcomer to Paddington but it is certainly familiar with the restaurant scene. Owners Justine Whelan and Kellee Robinson have been working together for years in various establishments including Tongue and Groove and The Gun Shop Cafe, both very successful venues. Their experience has ensured that Anouk has been busy from day one; an instant success readily embraced by the Paddington cafe crowd. Driving past the stylish place at any time of day garners a view of a healthy crowd digging into delicious food, or enjoying a sun-drenched coffee. It is especially busy for weekend breakfasts so get in early.
Anouk’s interior is tastefully decorated with relaxed cane furnishings (complete with cushy cushions) spilling onto the footpath. The food is top notch with regular menu changes, but despite all this Anouk is not pretentious in any way but exudes a rather casual atmosphere. After all it is a cafe, although for some this will only increase its charms. Breakfast favourites include the pancetta and gruyere French toast pocket with maple syrup. Similarly the tea-smoked chicken with kipfler potato, asparagus and vanilla cream is an example of the kitchen’s flair and creativity.
Meagan Hepworth, August 2007