I’ve met a lot of restaurant and cafe owners in my time. But not any that have a fiery glint in their eye as the owner of newly opened Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen, Carlos Cumberbatch, does. This glint means passion. And his passion is exerted with gusto in every facet of his and business partner Jono Clarkes’ joint venture.
Don’t let the address deter you—it takes just ten minutes flat to drive there from the city. And despite its industrial location, the fit-out is as sleek as it is warm—all while paying homage to its surroundings. High studs, flecks of black, marble and oak make this eatery one of the most beautiful new openings we’ve laid eyes on in some time.
Not only is the interior somewhat of a masterpiece, the food is something out of a how-to-make food-look-good guide… If there was such a thing. But not only that—it’s mind-blowingly tasty. Head Chef, Johannes (ex Ostro) has an effortless flair with flavour and texture combinations. The Pork Belly Bun is cooked in a slow water bath. Fall-apart-tender with slaw, house mayo, tomato-apple relish and stupidly crispy crackling, this is one sandwich you don’t want to miss. The lamb dish made me swoon a little more than usual when I eat. OK, a lot more. The perfectly cooked lamb rump sits pretty atop a croquette of such… But this herb encased concoction is not filled with potato. It’s filled with melt in your mouth lamb shoulder. Accompanied with fig and sultana chutney, homemade dukkah, creamy baba ganoush and sweet carrot chips. All we have to say is, genius.
The French toast—and actually all of the sweet treats—are impeccably presented and well balanced. And that’s not surprising considering head pastry chef, Hannah, honed her craft at none other than Little & Friday. The S'mores tart is to die for. And while said French Toast is available on the breakfast menu, I would highly suggest choosing a savory meal to begin and sharing it to end with others. Or just order it for yourself, if you’re that way inclined (this is a firm suggestion).
All in all, everything about Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen is impressive. And we’re just going to leave it at that—there’s nothing more to say.
For more details about Rosebank Coffee & Kitchen, including opening hours, click here.
Image credit: Lauren Matilda Matthews