PROFILE BY BEST RESTAURANTS
This place is jiving. From the DJ in the corner to the colourful and mismatched decor, anything goes at Cafe Lounge. Whether you are after a night of cocktails and nibbles, a sit down dinner with wine or a lazy weekend breakfast, this quirky bar and restaurant is as accommodating as it is funky. Bold wooden doors invite you into an endearingly quaint covered courtyard which has plants and coloured lights sprouting up here and there. Your eyes, however, are inevitably drawn to the painted backdrop of a tropical setting which transports you to somewhere more exotic than this little corner of Darlinghurst.
Once settled in one of the many different seating arrangements – choose from a picnic-like wooden table or sink into the comfy lounge suites – appoint the most organised among your group to run up to the bar and order. The menu embraces a medley of different influences including the Spanish gazpacho, the Mediterranean marinated lamb cutlets with cous cous and zucchini, and the Italian chorizo linguine with red capsicum, black olives and Napolitana sauce. For tables of ten or more, the staff warmly suggest you order the set menu. And why not when it offers a delectable tasting spread? The passion of the team at Cafe Lounge is easily recognisable in the community vibe, the artwork and the great music, turning dining here into a unique and fun experience.
Annabel Wise