The Grounds of Alexandria, Alexandria – Rating: 21/25 (re-review)

I’ll make this a quick review because if you read about my previous visit to The Grounds, then you already know what a treat it can be!

Not much has changed since… the food and service is still extraordinary, they still offer coffee and gardening courses and they produce most of their ingredients on site.  Unfortunately if you arrive during the morning peak period, there are still one hour waits to be had!  But with a takeaway coffee and some good company, the time will fly as you sit in the courtyard.

The freshly squeezed summer juices ($7) on offer are either orange or watermelon, pineapple & mint or orange, carrot & ginger.  Alterations to these combinations are not available!  They taste delicious though so pick your favourite and enjoy!

I ordered The Grounds chocolate milkshake ($7.50) expecting to be blown away by a drink that is named after the establishment.  While those who tried it enjoyed it (it was chocolatey, thick and smooth), I wanted more.  I’m still chasing something that can beat the milkshake at Ruby’s Diner…

I was asked by the table for my recommendations from last time and this was probably top of my list.  So three people ordered the Turkish style eggs ($16)!  It actually comes with poached instead of baked eggs.  Deliciously spicy, this hearty dish is perfect for cool days.  There was a bit too much chilli for some of my guests so be aware of the kick!  The labne blends perfectly with the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency.  The sauce is packed with spinach and cannellini and I think it is one of the most popular vegetarian dishes I’ve come across in my reviews.

The lemon myrtle mushrooms ($16) is a dish that two of my guests raved about.  A delectable blend of shimejo, enoki, field, baby button and woody mushrooms, the lemon myrtle is subtle and lets the ‘shrooms shine through.

Onto The Grounds breakfast board ($19), I added spicy lamb merguez sausage ($4.50) which comes with slices of cripy, fluffy potato and herbs.  This was another memorable dish from last time and while you need to be quit dexterous to manoeuvre all of the ingredients around the board, it is a prime example of what The Grounds represents: outstanding quality ingredients and chefs with a talent for matching flavours.  The eggs alone tasted outstanding, the ham was delicious and the housemade pesto is a great compliment.

If you leave without trying the desserts or pastries, you are definitely missing out.  Who knows how long the triple berry and chocolate muffin and jam doughnuts will be available for so get in fast!

The Grounds sells their fruit near the entrance and you can also purchase bacon and egg rolls with a sweet housemade tomato relish for the reasonable price of $7!  With such friendly staff and a vibrant, friendly client base, The Grounds is a perfect way to start your Sunday (even if it’s raining)!