The Pantry on Egmont

At any time of the week at The Pantry on Egmont, expect to join a queue or pull up an outside stool before being seated. With only six small tables plus window/bar seating for four to five more, the cosy and colourful little cafe chugs along constantly. Pass the time throwing around some chitchat with other patient patrons, or count carriages on the interstaters as they trundle by.

Inside there’s a jumble of mismatching ‘50s-era furniture, in-but-out-of-style wallpaper, cluttered countertops and a bustling open kitchen. Yet, rather than feeling like an uncomfortable hodgepodge of half-baked ideas, The Pantry buzzes with joviality, echoed in the casual, friendly service.

Its concise menu runs until 3pm, featuring a handful of homemade components. Russel’s Big Breakfast delivers precisely what it promises, served on sourdough from John Carpinelli’s Dernancourt bakery, Rustico. Special mention also to the French Toast which is heaped with apricot compote, vanilla cream cheese, pistachio crumble and raspberry coulis. Coffee comes courtesy of De Groot Roasters and is sweet and satisfying.

With a full license and available for intimate after-hours events, the team at The Pantry are determined to squeeze every last drop of substance from the versatile little eatery.