Alexandria, once a light industrial and warehouse wonderland, is fast becoming a destination for lattes and late breakfasts. Went to See The Gyspy (WTSTG) is one of the flashier new options in a beautiful, blonde timber-filled lofty warehouse space, once home to a dark and moody antique joint. The fit out is gorgeous and rather posh, making us feel like we’re enjoying a stylish summer brunch on the UES of Manhattan, a lightyear away from the bustle of Mitchell Road.
The difference with WTSTG is that if you approach their centrepiece Brew Bar for a takeaway, you’ll actually be able to see your barista’s face. No longer will you have a caffeine-based relationship with the top of your barista’s head, the Mod Bar set up here is a well-presented modern novelty- with most of the machine action integrated below the terrazzo façade. The familiar whistling of steaming milk is the only tell-tale sign that your Gypsy-roasted blend or single origin is coming right up. We opt for their signature iced coffee on account of the recent spate of steamy summer days. It does not disappoint. Ice cream and whipped cream adornments need not apply here, the coffee is delicious and speaks for itself. Gypsy Espresso duo Mario Szucs and Will Smallbone certainly know their craft, and we’re glad they’ve added to their East-side haunt by opening in the Inner West.
The Gypsies have modernised some café classics. At WTSTG, if you miss breakfast you can pick from all day brunch menu items or try a plate or burger from the lunch offering. The open commercial kitchen under the direction of head chef Bryan Loong (ex Cho Cho San, Devon) serves up a seasonal menu, with something for everyone. We try the toasted banana loaf with brûlée banana, perfect for a sweet start to the day, and a fresh Romanian Lunch Bowl that has enough holy greens to justify the Golden Gaytime Tiramisu for dessert. If you’ve got one of those handy ‘cheat days’ up your sleeve go for the Crispy Chicken Katsu Sandwich, otherwise we hear great things about the Miso Glazed Salmon (again, leaving room for that Gaytime Tiramisu situation, just sayin’).
Looking for a place to take the kidlets and fur child for an after-school babycino? Probably skip past on your way to one of the other Alexandria café and coffee bar options. The poshness of WTSTG is much more about sitting and enjoying good food and great coffee, so consider it for your next offsite client meeting or catch up with your creative hipster crew. Don’t forget to prep thoughtful caffeine-based conversation as you approach the Brew Bar, pop the terms ‘candied walnut notes’ and ‘blueberry skin tartness’ in your back pocket. You’re welcome.
Went To See The Gypsy
Shop 1, 76 Mitchell Rd, Alexandria, 2015
Opening Hours:
Daily, breakfast and lunch: 7am – 4pm
http://www.gypsyespresso.com.au
