Sometimes getting lost is worth it. Like taking the road less travelled (sans Lonely Planet) when backpacking through a foreign town. Or aimlessly wandering through Naples’ cobbled streets and stumbling across the locals’ best pizza joint.

It’s a bit like getting lost in Paddington somewhere between The London and Grand National pubs – and discovering an inconspicuous laneway leading to a culinary oasis.

Squished between two unsuspecting terraces on Underwood Street is where you’ll find a narrow artery leading to Underwood Cafe. Meander down the slim path, pass through the huge wooden doors and step into what feels like a mini Balinese resort.

Sit back in a big wicker chair or recline into a cushioned day bed and settle in for the long haul. Order a coffee – you’ll be impressed – and get stuck into the well-curated menu featuring brunch stalwarts like green eggs and ham, and a bacon and scrambled egg roll to rival the best. Lunch is all about seared tuna niçoise salad with soft boiled eggs, and a Paddington style steak sandwich – we’re talking 100 day grain fed yearling steak with balsamic beetroot, roasted capsicum and salsa verde.

It’d be criminal not to sample a house made baked muffin while you’re there – chunky almond and white chocolate with raspberries is a goer.

Underwood Cafe
120b Underwood Street, Paddington 2021
Open Monday to Friday 8am – 4pm, Saturday 7.30am – 4pm