And there’s something about wandering around a vibrantly curated homeware store, and being seduced to sink into the closest armchair with a slice of cake (while you scope out potential purchases).
You won’t get funny looks doing either of these things at new Mona Vale café The Armchair Collective — everything is for sale. Restauranteur Andrew Goldsmith and interior designer Pip Robb’s latest venture is a café doubling as a beachy, relaxed homeware store selling décor so authentically costal-chic it’s easy to think you’ve just wandered in post-swim.
The Armchair Collective isn’t actually located on the beach, but the 40-minute drive from central Sydney is excuse enough to indulge in a beefburger with house-made pickle, hand-cut fries and harissa mayo.
Actually, it’s probably a good thing that The Armchair Collective is a little out of the way – we almost want to keep it all to ourselves.
The Armchair Collective
9 Darley Street East, Mona Vale
T: (02) 9999 2871