Concrete Playground

You can find Jam Jar within a few steps of popular  bar Lock 'n Load, but don't bother judging the cafe from the street view. The small bar, buzzing kitchen and vintage looking piano covered in nick knacks found at the front doesn't really do the venue much justice. Venture a little further by requesting a table, and you'll be lead through a picture covered corridor and into the venue's open courtyard.

The courtyard has a homely backyard feel with lots of greenery and brick, as well as an eclectic quality thanks to the recycled furniture (the cushioned benches are made from old doors) and graffiti covered walls. It is a little haphazard and unexpected, but such is the charm of Jam Jar.

The food on the other hand is far more upscale than what you would find at you're average backyard barbecue. Reading through the clipboard menu you'll find Jam Jar has a surprisingly mature taste for upmarket food - another unexpected quality. Classic dishes are given sneaky twists, exotic ingredients such as ox tail and duck eggs are worked creatively into delicious sounding dishes, there are numerous gluten free options available and at the end of your meal the cheque is delivered in a quaint little jam jar.

For breakfast, depending on whether you're sweet or savoury, you'd be wise to try their tropical twist on french toast  complete with caramelised pineapple, or the breakfast brushetta with mushrooms and tomato. For lunch and dinner or any time in between, Jam Jar's share plates are a worthy option. The slow poached baby beetroot with creamed goat’s cheese and sage crumbs, and roasted figs, with brie, verjuice dressing and basil crisps' are at the top of our 'to try' list. Mains include swordfish, Tasmanian salmon or sage infused ballotine of chicken, and at only $29, there's enough in the kitty to enjoy some dessert. Our pick? Lavender panna cotta, with poached pear and poire williams consommé. Need we say any more?

Image by Mark Lobo Photography