Cafe Lounge

Oh, the joy of the hangover. Despite modern science's best efforts, mankind in the 21st century is still without an effective cure. And while there's much to be said for lying in the foetal position, whimpering softly to yourself, if you intend to survive the ordeal with a minimum of pain and self-loathing you need a sure-fire recovery strategy. Something involving a hair of the dog, perhaps. Or just a big breakfast with all the trimmings. But where to get it? And where to go when you look as bad as you feel?

Hello, Cafe Lounge. Just five minutes' walk from Oxford Street, suffering is made easier in the knowledge that in this part of town, there's no shame in looking like the morning after the night before. Dark sunglasses and bed-hair are practically mandatory.

Once you've staggered through the gate into the courtyard, grab a bench and focus on the soothing tropical sunset mural painted on the back wall. If the hangover is particularly severe, try to temporarily fool yourself into believing you're on holiday in the Caribbean. However, if you do look around you'll notice that Cafe Lounge's three rooms and a nook are reminiscent of those unobtrusive hole-in-the-wall cafes they do so well in Europe. The furniture might remind you of a student share house, but the well-worn decor serves to promote a relaxed atmosphere - highly desirable when you're feeling fragile.

Menu-wise, Cafe Lounge has all the bases covered. Their breakfasts ($8-$15) have won them a loyal following, but there's also a great selection of juices and smoothies ($4-$6), salads ($13-$15), and pizzas and pastas ($13-$16). If you prefer to stave off the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal by not actually withdrawing, keep the flow going with a range of spirits ($6.50-$7), wines ($6 glass, $26 bottle) and cocktails ($12). The chai quake cocktail is one to keep in mind - similar to a White Russian but with a hint of chai, it's the perfect thing to suck on as you sit in the feeble winter sunshine. Those partial to a schooner should note that there is no beer on tap, although they do serve seven brands of bottled beer including Coopers, Stella and Carlton Draught ($4.50-$7).