Daisy's Milkbar

Daisy's Milkbar in Petersham is like stepping into a time warp back to the days of red frogs and milkshakes after school. Behind the counter are a selection of lollies for purchase just in case you don't get your fill from the free plate of mixed lollies which does the rounds to people who are waiting for a table. The free cordial stand is irresistible, offering standard flavours along with that overly sticky sweet green lime flavour. You know the one.

The Reuben ($14) is a delight and oh-so filling. I was lucky enough to dine with company who also wanted a Reuben, so we ordered one each of the fresh and toasted variety and went halvies - the toasted version came out victorious. The fresh one was also delicious, but there's something special about toasted bread and melted cheese on....almost anything. The meat is generous, layered between sauerkraut just the way it should be, gherkins and dressing. I tried to fault it, but my tastebuds knew better. 

 

Best contender so far - the only criticism is the single cheese slice. The cheese is really tasty but another slice wouldn't go astray. If you have room, the malt milkshake is highly recommended.

9/10

Website: Daisy's Milkbar

Gather on the Green

You'll find Gather on the Green immediately next to Store Espresso in Camperdown. This cafe also allows the take away to the park option, where most of the time it seems that the staff were able to pair up orders with bodies on the grass. My friend and I weren't so lucky, our order of two Reubens going to the couple not too far away who had only just arrived and coincidentally ordered the same thing - we only realised until it was too late. A 45 minute wait late (add in a free coffee after some "oops" acknowledgement from the staff) and finally said Reuben arrived.

I was determined not to let the extensive wait for what is essentially a fancy toasted sandwich mar my approach to constructively reviewing the Reuben. The first thing I noticed was chunky purple cabbage, coleslaw style, instead of sauerkraut which in my opinion was the culprit to the Reuben just not being that great. The other usual ingredients were there, but nothing stood out to make this a memorable sandwich.

The best part of the Reuben was the atmosphere relaxing in the sun. If given the choice between Gather on the Green and Store Espresso (purely based on Reuben prowess), Store Espresso wins hands down.

6/10

No website, find the Facebook page here: Gather on the Green

Store Espresso

Store Espresso is seemingly in an unusual spot in Camperdown, on the edge of Camperdown Park (not to be confused with Camperdown Memorial Rest Park) and nestled among terrace houses. It sits next to another cafe, Gather on the Green, and together they dominate the cafe scene. Both cafes seem to be equally busy and both offer the take away to the park option, so they'll bring out your order straight to you lazing on your picnic blanket.

I was informed of the hand written Reuben special which presents itself on a brown paper bag taped to the counter by a friend, unfortunately it doesn't have seemed to make the permanent menu. It was clear that I had I arrived in the prime time Saturday busy period but the staff were friendly and it wasn't a long wait outside in the pleasant sunshine. Forgoing lounging in the park, I opted instead for a leisurely stroll and to devour it on-the-go. Store Espresso delivered; a toasted and somewhat mushy (in a good way) Reuben with just the right amount of cheese which pleasantly stuck the sandwich together. It wasn't jammed packed with corned beef, containing quite a modest amount, but it worked. The sandwich as whole had the right combination of ingredients which together made a delicious Reuben. Sauerkraut quantity can be difficult to get right, but this was a pleaser. I usually take the standpoint of more is better when it comes to sauerkraut but again, this just worked. The sourdough was soft on the inside and toasted crunchy on the outside, but rye bread would have made the experience more authentic. Although I was informed by my friend who had sampled the Reuben the week before that his contained slivers of gherkin, in mine they were nowhere to be found.

Quite a modest take on the Reuben, it won't leave you with the regret of stuffing yourself.

8/10

Website:Store Espresso