Two Gems in the Meadow

I pass by them most days and yet have not fully realized their shine.

Just a twenty minute walk from my house north of the Wollongong cbd is the Jam Shop Cafe. It has red coloured wooden tables outside on the pavement, and more seats inside, but more importantly it is reminiscent of a Parisian scene with a touch of NSW Southern Highland countryside charm. It has an eye for detail, in the way it has delightful surprises on its shelves and walls, and in unexpected corners. The shiny red radio seems out of step with souvenirs from an enchanted past. Standing out in this cornucopia are Julia's home made and lovingly crafted preserves and jams, which are the anchor of this ambient cafe's offerings. Julia has a delightful boisterous personality and whose passion for her cooking shines through her offered menu selections. Add to all these is a view straight towards the hills of Mount Pleasant and Mount Ousley.

I was introduced to this gem of a place by Wendy - and we had a light lunch of mains graced with fresh salads and a soul rendering risotto. I had a rich tasty veg patty while Wendy relished in her sausage roll. These were garnished with dollops of Julia's specially made jams. For dessert, we chose the intense choc fudge with ice cream. The sun broke out from a week long cloudiness when we arrived at the cafe and after the meal, the sun receded.

Across the road, five minutes walk away from Julia's place is a boutique cake shop, Zweefers, which has captured my attention through its flourless chocolate cake. When I bite through a piece, the sensation of fine hazel nuts and agreeable chocolate combine to create a rare experience - neither too sweet nor overwhelmingly rich. I am also partial to its mango and coconut offering, followed by the coffee and kahlua cake.

I am thankful to live so near such creative outlets, and not just think it's only in Sydney that I can get such specialities.