Swimming pool canteens are hardly a coveted affair, except when Stephany and Gary Burton are involved. The husband-and-wife team responsible for Poolside Café at Andrew ‘Boy’ Charlton Pool have spread their waterside wings to Redfern, opening Meadow at the newly revamped Prince Alfred Park Pool.

Built neatly into the grassy slope, Meadow sits hidden from street view, but cuts a striking figure for those wandering through the park or taking a dip. Like torches for the hungry, those big yellow umbrellas lead you straight there.

Situated outside the pool’s entrance, the cafe is incorporated into the baby blue, yellow and exposed timber scheme of the facility and – with all the palm trees around – looks more Palm Beach than Redfern. Inside, the floor-to-ceiling windows mean the interior is brilliantly lit and, for those swimming in winter, the outside tables are supplemented with heaters and blankets.

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Meadow’s menu is extensive and exotic. Created by the Burtons, the food is designed to feed hungry swimmers, onlookers and Surry Hills foodies alike.

Along with staples of toast, muesli and eggs, breakfast has some indulgent surprises, including the black sticky rice with coconut cream, banana and passionfruit. Serving Campos coffee and a salted caramel hot chocolate, you’ll be able to warm up post-swim or refresh with their inventive selection of milkshakes, smoothies and frappés.

For late risers, a separate lunch menu comes into effect at 11.45am, with sandwiches, larger meals (including crab, ocean trout, twice cooked chicken) and chips with thyme, salt and aioli.

Whether you’re planning on taking advantage of Prince Alfred Park Pool’s warm waters and temporary free admission or not, Meadow is a calm poolside oasis that could easily become your new regular.

The Prince Alfred Park Pool will have free casual entry until November 12, 2013.

Meadow
Prince Alfred Park Pool
1004 Chalmers Street, Surry Hills
(02) 8399 1198

Hours

Daily 7am–4pm

meadowcafe.com.au