Calling all foodies who want to give back, chomp consciously and reduce that carbon footprint! We’ve rounded up some of our favourite eateries based on their environmental, ethical and social impact – and of course, their flavoursome food.
Lentil As Anything
Delicious, high quality and simply beautiful – these are just a few words to describe not-for-profit vegetarian restaurant, Lentil As Anything. This ethical eatery has a philosophy that is often unrivalled in the culinary world, and one that is centred on trust and generosity. The organisation operates without menu prices. Instead, you pay what you feel the meal is worth, what you can afford, and of course, how much you want to give back. Nothing short of extraordinary, the profits made at this bustling King Street eatery go towards vital projects to help acclimatise and support the lives of migrants and refugees.
Where to find them: 391 King St, Newtown NSW 2042
Check their website out here!
Nourishing Quarter
Located on Sydney’s lively Cleveland Street, Nourishing Quarter catches the eye – and for all the right reasons. The interior pays homage to the nostalgic aesthetics of the past with its mismatched antique furniture and old-world curiosities that immediately make one feel warm and welcome upon arrival. A true haven for healthy eating and well being, the philosophy behind the food is to reconnect, heal, nourish and flourish patrons with delicious wheat, gluten and dairy free vegan food – Intolerant comrades, rejoice! The menu is like a fusion of exotic Asian and Mediterranean flavours with a splash of Latin American healing, and every dish is lovingly made using only the best locally grown organic produce. Good for the body, great for the soul – what’s not to love?
Where to find them: 315 Cleveland St, Redfern NSW 2016
Check their website out here!
Gratia
Gratia, which is the Latin root word for gratitude, is a Surry Hills café showing us that you can combine your love of philanthropy and food through delicious, sophisticated dishes. Coined as Sydney’s first ‘Profit for Purpose’ café, Gratia gives 100% of their profits made to selected local and global charities, with an aim to promote positive change in the world. Gratia’s doors are open from 8am to 3pm and they offer an ‘All Day Breakfast’ policy, accommodating the avid brunch lovers out there (you know who you are!).
Where to find them: 372 Bourke St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Check their website out here!
Earth to Table
Earth to Table is a 100% organic raw vegan café located in Bondi Junction, and a popular choice for those on the hunt for some scrumptious “guilt-free” desserts. Offering everything from mouth watering fudge brownies, truffles and cheesecake to irresistible caramel slice, chocolate raspberry mousse (and plenty more where that came from), it’s hard to believe these delicious delicacies are all dairy, wheat and sugar free – and not heat processed. The philosophy behind this must-try eatery is to serve food in its pure state (and pure it is!). Every dish is created using high quality organic ingredients, giving a loving nod to the environment and to our vitality. Dining green has never been so easy – or so tasty!
If you’re ready for your mouth to water, check out their Instagram for a taste of what’s to come!
Where to find them: 85 Bronte Rd, Bondi Junction NSW 2022
Cornersmith
If you’re a fan of tasty paddock-to-plate restaurants, then it’s time you get acquainted with your new best friend: Cornersmith Cafe & Picklery. Situated on a quaint little corner in Sydney’s much loved inner-west suburb of Marrickville, the Cornersmith family are avid believers in sustainable and ethical food production and business practices. They source their goods from small local growers and stick to a seasonal menu, so nothing is imported and therefore, there is less impact on the environment.
Also, if you’ve got a penchant for pickles, you can learn how to pickle your own by attending one of Cornersmith’s pickling workshops! Learn more here
Where to find them: 88 View St, Annandale Marrickville
