If you’re after an adventurous and adrenalin-packed weekend escape from the city, the Snowy Mountains in NSW has plenty to see, do and explore.
Whether you’re keen to hike to the summit of Australia’s highest peak at Kosciuszko National Park, or soak up the country’s ski and snowboarding mecca during winter, we’re willing to bet that a trip to the Snowy Mountains will work you up quite an appetite.
So, you’re going to need some serious sustenance to get you through, and thanks to a burgeoning food scene that heroes all-things seasonal and regional, there’s an abundance of places to try. Here’s your Weekender guide to cafes in the Snowy Mountains.
* At the time of writing, activities and places mentioned in this guide are at varying stages of recovery from COVID-19. Please check government and business websites for specific details on opening times and any restrictions before you travel.
Birchwood, Jindabyne
Showcasing the vision of two childhood friends, Jindabyne’s Birchwood is into its fourth year of business and has become a stalwart of the region. The kitchen focuses on unique dishes that brim with flavour—we’re talking about their spicy pulled beef on sourdough, served with wild rice, smoked corn and pickled onion salsa, avo, chilli fried eggs, coriander and lime, or Jerusalem lamb with olive and currant yoghurt, smashed peas, charred eggplant, poached eggs, chilli butter, flatbread and herbs.Even their avo toast is a cut above the rest—served with miso cashew cream, little tomatoes, edamame, pickled daikon, wasabi pea and sunflower furikake, nori, herbs and lemon. Are you drooling, yet? If it’s a hit of caffeine you’re after, rest assured that you’re in good hands at Birchwood. Canberran’s—you’ll recognise their roast as one of the nation’s capital’s finest; Lonsdale Street Roasters. Hallelujah!
Where: Shop 3/3 Gippsland Street, Jindabyne
When: Coffee 7.00 am - 4.00 pm, food 7.00 am - 3.00 pm daily
The Market, Jindabyne
Another Jindabyne gem, The Market is a concept as much as a cafe. It markets (pun intended) itself as a whole foods grocer and coffee shop, focusing on selling fresh produce, local goods (the drive to support other local businesses in the Snowy Mountains is palpable), and vintage gear.The menu is a vegan’s dream; brimming with cakes, slices and toasted sandwiches that are all vegan-friendly, alongside fan favourites like açai bowls, avocado toast, and smoothies.
While you’re there you can check out the epic range of vintage apparel on offer—denim, coats, dresses, shirts, hats and accessories plus a whole lot more. And if that wasn't enough to sway you—you can also do a grocery shop while you’re there, making sure to pick up all manner of reusable trappings to make sustainable living a whole lot easier.
Where: Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, 6/141 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne
When: 9.00 am - 5.30 pm weekdays, 9.00 am - 4.00 pm weekends
