Best fermentation cafes and restaurants in Sydney

The ancient practice of fermenting has surged again in popularity in the past few years, with the consumption of fermented foods said to increase the number of good bacteria in the body and in turn aid digestion and strengthen the immune system. Note – there's a difference between fermentation and pickling (the latter uses acid to preserve, the former uses microbiological starter cultures). Among the products to look out for on menus in Sydney: sauerkraut, kombucha, kefir, miso, tempeh, kimchi, yoghurt, naturally fermented sourdough and sprouted bread.

Orchard St. Cafe & Elixir Bar

Easy-breezy Orchard St. is Sydney's first outlet serving kombucha – a cultured drink made from fermented teas and raw cane sugar – on tap. There's also an incredible range of house-made juices, such as elderberry kefir, a brief food menu and a lovely raw desserts line-up. Also at Bronte.

2 Brighton Boulevard, Bondi

Egg of the Universe

With a menu featuring kombucha, water kefir, sprouted buckwheat, and lacto-fermented tomato sauce and pickles, EOTU might be Sydney's most "cultured" cafe. Try the perfect circle salad – a mix of raw and fermented salads with activated nut pesto, tahini and raw crackers.

711 Darling Street, Rozelle, (02) 9810 3146

Sprout Wholefood

Stock up on supplies for home – fermented and otherwise – at the adjoining grocer/health food shop, after brekkie at this family-friendly cafe – for example, Spring Wellness sprouted bread with cashew mayo, fermented vegies and more (the veg also come as a side, which broadens the choice for ferment-fans).

272-274 Willoughby Road, Naremburn, (02) 8094 8101

The Coffee Shop Next Door

In cahoots with the neighbouring surf shop, this health-conscious cafe sells Orchard St. drinks, Kehoe's Kitchen fermented goods and eye-catching raw, vegan desserts. From the menu, try smashed avocado on gluten free sprouted bread with fresh herbs and a side of Kehoe's beet and ginger sauerkraut.

46-60 Pittwater Road, Manly

ALSO TRY
Cornersmith, Marrickville
Bread & Circus, Alexandria
Porch & Parlour, Bondi
The Suv 2, Bondi and Bondi Junction

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