Baba's Place, Marrickville

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Let me just start by saying: Baba's Place is a must-try. I'm not talking about one of those places you give a half-hearted recommendation to. No, this spot is the real deal. Tucked away in the industrial heart of Marrickville, right next to the iconic AP Bakery, it’s one of those places you almost have to be in the know about. But once you find it, you won’t forget it.

The vibe? Chill, unpretentious, and just cool enough to make you feel like you’ve stumbled on a hidden treasure. And the food? Oh, it’s next-level. Did I also mention the communal tables where you get to sit family-style with others!



Hot n Cold Eggplant with Cashew Cream
Let’s kick things off with one of the most intriguing dishes on the menu: the Hot n Cold Eggplant. This is exactly what it sounds like—one layer of cold eggplant, followed by a warm, silky layer. It’s like a texture explosion, with the smooth, creamy cashew cream and crunchy rice crisp adding both flavour and contrast. The freshness of the tomato balances everything out, making this an absolute standout. So simple, yet so effective.

Beef Tartare with Roasted Corn and Fermented Daikon
Next, we have the Beef Tartare. The roasted corn brings a nice sweetness, and the fermented daikon adds a funky tanginess that pulls everything together in a way I wasn’t expecting. It’s a modern twist on tartare, with a nod to the experimental side of things. You’re not gonna find this combination anywhere else, and that’s what makes it special.



Roasted Flathead with Roasted Tomato Basil and Tropical Hot Sauce
Now, the real star of the show: the Roasted Flathead. This fish dish is cooked to absolute perfection—flaky, tender, and delicately roasted. The roasted tomato basil is so rich and comforting, while the tropical hot sauce is the perfect punch of heat and sweetness. It’s one of those dishes that makes you wish you could eat it forever. If you visit Baba’s Place for no other reason, let it be this dish.



Rice Pudding with Pineapple, Pandan, and Banana Leaf Oil
On the dessert side, I went for the Rice Pudding with pineapple, pandan, and a subtle hint of banana leaf oil. It was good—not overly sweet, which is always a bonus. However, if I’m being honest, it didn’t blow my mind. Don’t get me wrong, it was a refreshing, light finish to the meal, but I wasn’t head over heels for it. Maybe it’s just a personal preference.

Sticky Date with Black Pepper Crème Pat and Butterscotch
Now, if you’ve got a sweet tooth (and who doesn’t?), you’ll be just as obsessed with the Sticky Date pudding. The black pepper crème pat is an unexpected but genius touch, adding a subtle heat that balances out the rich butterscotch. It’s sweet, it’s indulgent, and it absolutely sealed the deal for me. Perfect end to an unforgettable meal.

All in all, Baba’s Place punches above its weight. It’s a gem that deserves way more attention than it gets, and trust me - you’ll be telling your friends about it in no time.

Photos supplied by Nicole.

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