The Grounds of Alexandria

For the longest time, people have been raving about the Grounds of Alexandria. Apparently the food is amazing, the surroundings are quirky and unique and to top it all off, they have a resident pig named 'Kevin Bacon' who was stolen and ended up in Victoria. 

I've wanted to check this place out for quite some time, but never had the opportunity to do so. So when one of my girlfriends suggested to me that we catch up for coffee and cake at this cafe one Sunday afternoon, I jumped at the idea!

Based in the industrial area of Alexandria, the Grounds is quite inconspicuous from the outside. However, once you enter the gates, it is quite obvious what all the fuss is about. The cafe itself was bustling and extremely busy, despite it being 3pm and close to their closing time. Lucky for me (but unfortunately for my friend who had to wait for a while due to my tardiness - sorry again!), I didn't need to stand in line. But from what I hear, the wait can sometimes take up to an hour due to the popularity of this place. However, whilst you wait to be seated, there is plenty to see within the vicinity. 

Outside the cafe are little food stalls that sell freshly baked goods and condiments. A little further down, there is a small flower shop that stocks the most amazing rainbow coloured flowers, with little novelty items that are perfect to give people as gifts. And out the back is where Mr. Kevin Bacon (who has become pretty fat) and his little goat friend live. The little barnyard setup is too cute! It definitely adds to the character and atmosphere of the cafe.

Although people around us were eating meals that looked quite appetising and tempting, we chose to stick to the original plan of coffee and cake. My friend chose to go for the croquembouche tower whilst I chose to go for a lemon cheesecake with a polenta base (gluten free option), and I'm glad we did! To accompany my cake, I ordered a Soy Cappucino to counteract the sweetness. 

The lemon flavour in the cheesecake was divine - not too much so that it was overpowering, but just enough so that it didn't taste like a standard cheesecake. I quite liked the polenta base that was used instead of the crumbled biscuits, as it gave a beautiful texture when eaten together with the creamy cheesecake. 

If you are looking for an organic meal or a delightful sweet treat, I recommend that you check this place out. It's a nice way to spend the day with family or friends, and I will definitely be returning there soon! 9/10 from me! 

You can check this cafe out at - http://groundsroasters.com/