As the Tuggeranong region grows so to do the food offerings. Tucked away in the Lifestyle Centre [near the Good Guys entrance] at South.Point is your new coffee catch-up spot – Southern Grounds.
“For us it’s about complimenting the revitalisation of the centre and transforming into something new for our customers,” says owner Tom Reaby. “We will be doing the simple things really well, and likewise introducing more variety including some café foods you would inheritly see in the city.”
With 15 years’ experience and seven different cafes around town under his belt; Tom says being non-pretentious makes a good coffee spot people will want to keep coming back for. Southern Grounds has two house blends, Body– a milk-based blend which is full bodied and cuts through milk well. It’s a mix of five of Toms fave arabica beans. And, a black blend called Soul which is smooth and well balanced. Tom says the most important thing to remember is everyone likes their coffee differently – there are no rules when it comes to making a coffee his customers will enjoy.
As far as the kitchen goes, you’ll find the best of both worlds. One head chef has focused on mastering the good ol’ favourites, while the other takes a more modern approach and explores tasty vegan offerings. Let’s just say the Beetroot & Black Bean Burger will be something you keep coming back for. Juicy beetroot and black bean patty, baby cos, pickles, tomato, aioli and chipotle mayo on an Italian rustic roll; or the Southern Smashed Avocado topped with smokey tempeh and heirloom tomatoes; and the Mushroom Bruschetta with fetta, walnuts and roquette will have you overlooking the meat options!
The takeaway coffee cups are memorable. The funky deigns are on rotation showcasing Australian art. If you love your cup so much, you can even order the prints for your home.
The space is looking to expand its seating and provide public servants in the region with more variety when it comes to dining options. Catch-up for breakfast over the Brekky Sandwich, a classic combo of egg, bacon, Swiss, caramelised onion and house made sauce; or the brioche French Toast with bacon, walnuts, caramelised banana maple syrup if you prefer something a little sweet. Plan a lunch date around the Cajun Chicken Burger with bacon, avocado, tomato, baby cos, aioli, and Swiss on a rustic Italian roll; or the Double Beef Burger with onion, bacon, jack, pickles, mustard, and tomato sauce.