Pandemonium

LOCATION
In the middle of Paddington’s main street – look for lime green.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS
This old-school diner churns out an unbeatable all-day fresh breakfast along with burgers, paninis and other cafe fare, to an endless stream of cheerful customers. Brimming with 70’s retro decor, a classic open-kitchen and neatly mismatched, brightly-coloured chairs and aluminium tables, this eatery makes the quirky Paddington patrons look uncannily like they belong among the furniture. Owner /chef Leisa takes newbie chefs under her wing and moulds them into hot-to-trot 70’s dinner extraordinaires. But before you get carried away with the burgers (and there’s plenty to get carried away by), the all-day breakfast menu deserves some attention – and respect. French toast, or pancakes, with seasonal fresh fruit, mixed berries and ice-cream make a striking appearance alongside the extra special – and mass-reeling – Paddo’s eggs benedict.

But, the burgers are spectacular. Especially the Pandemonium special – the almighty barramundi creation with fresh fish and a filling that puts other burgers to shame. Living up to its name, “the works burger” with a 100% beef patty, cheese, pineapple, rich Napoli sauce, bacon, egg, salad and fries is also sure to satisfy (and prove a feat for even the largest of appetites). Homemade is a passion and Pandemodium takes extra care to cater for all dietary needs – vegan, vegos, gluten- and lactose-intolerant types will find their home here. The menu is just as devoted to beverage choices and meets any imaginable drink desire – from smoothies to spiders, coffees, health shakes, frappes and sodas to glasses of local wine. And, when you bask in the late-afternoon sun and sip a chilled Stella while digging into your spinach and fetta omelette, or fluffy scrambled eggs, you know you’ve found somewhere truly special.

Katharine Chapman