The team behind Gus’ Place has opened a new cafe southside
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A city institution has ventured south of the lake to become a good neighbour to more Canberrans.
Wentworth Avenue in Kingston now has a new resident – and it intends to become popular with the locals. Good Neighbour, a new venture from owner of Bunda Street icon Gus’ Place has opened, slinging breakfast, brunch and lunch classics. And guys, it’s pet-friendly.
With interiors by Capezio Copeland, the space reflects its lush inner south surrounds with zingy greens and earth tones. It’s a fun contrast to our memories of Gus’ moody interiors, but fans will be happy to hear there will be some crossover when it comes to the menu, including the Mexican-inspired Huevos Sucios (Dirty Eggs) and Shakshouka.
“When guests come in for breakfast, they know exactly what they want – it’s our job to hit that spot,” says owner Fish Zafar. “That simplicity is all we’re trying to achieve.”
Joining them will be chilli crab folded eggs and ricotta hotcakes while Fish says that a rotating menu of specials will keep things interesting for locals.
“The specials will add interest and intrigue. One day it could be a Thai soup, or a curry or pasta…we won’t be limited by cuisine.”
As for lunch? A karaage bowl, crispy fish tacos and sun-dried tomato and basil capellini. Takeaway options will about too, with sandwiches and baked treats. Think: a Reuben toastie, tuna melt and poached chicken mayo, as well as burnt Basque cheesecake, scones, cinnamon scrolls and New York-style chunky cookies. Yum.
For Fish, Good Neighbour represents an opportunity to keep doing what he loves most while Gus’ Place is on hiatus due to the redevelopment of the Garema Place building.
“I didn’t want to spend too long out of hospitality as it is constantly evolving, so I thought we’ve got a strong team, we have experience, and it gives us the opportunity to try something different in a new space.”
As for drinks, a strawberry iced matcha is on the cards and all I can say is, hold me back.
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Good Neighbour
Open: Monday to Friday from 7.30 am – 2.30 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 8 am – 1.30pm
Where: 1/55 Wentworth Ave, Kingston
Website: @goodneighbour.cafe
Photography: Ben Calvert
