On my lunch break from work I headed as usual to my local cafe to get some lunch, imagine my shock when I found it was closed for the day. So, dazed and confused, off I went in search of somewhere new.
After going just around the corner I happened upon The Plantation House Cafe - which looked really lovely, plus it was busy, always a good sign. I went in, but it soon became clear that this was no ordinary cafe. Did it sell coffee, yes, did it sell food, well yes, but this is a place that champions "healthy homemade choices" and offers mostly gluten, egg and dairy free breakfasts, snacks and lunches.
Not only that, it also doubles as a cute store which sells local fresh produce including eggs, Turkish bread, fruit and vegetables and more. The prices are reasonable too, and you can be safe in the knowledge that your hard earned cash is going to local suppliers, plus it's also a healthy option.
Being away from the beaches and slightly more inland - although only 5-10 minutes drive from Burleigh Heads Beach - means prices are much more affordable. Most breakfast and lunch menu items are under $12, and the portion sizes are really generous. Most coffees such as mocha, flat white, cappuccino and latte are just $3.80 for a small and $4.30 for a large and it's good quality coffee too.
They offer a great selection, whether looking for a main meal or a snack, that is all homemade, healthy and delicious. I had beef and lentil lasagne with salad and a large mocha, which was yummy and only came to a total of $15.20. Not bad, and I didn't feel the guilt I would usually feel after having a main meal like that for lunch, it didn't feel heavy at all.
The staff were really friendly, despite being rushed off their feet, and the wait time was just a few minutes - perfect if you just have a short lunch break.
They have indoor and outdoor seating plus a large covered patio area that they use for functions. It is located on Tallebudgera Creek Road, in West Burleigh, just a couple of minutes from the Pacific Highway and Tsipura Drive.
It is a really cute, healthy alternative for breakfast or lunch which I shall definitely be visiting again. It just goes to show that you never know what could be just around the corner.
Open from 6:30am to 2:30pm Monday to Saturday.
They also offer a "buy 4 coffees and get 1 free" - so make sure you get the card and get your stamp.