The Quaff Shop Cafe & Gallery

You have to first know where Mudgee’s Quaff Shop Cafe and Gallery is, unless you’ll never find it. A big country block from the main town centre and opposite a high school, this unassuming group of businesses sharing an historic former business or residence (?) is a special find. I’m a fan of the renovated as opposed to modern shiny and new, it figures why I’ll soon be living part-time in a 1920s train carriage not far from Mudgee. The Quaff Shop’s well weathered floor boards are impressive, but I’m not sure who butchered the ceilings? Two large dining rooms and a shady courtyard out the back plus a few tables on the footpath, this place undeniably has soul. If it’s shopping you’re after, there’s a rack of preloved funky clothes, plus art, candles and jewellery for sale. It must be a favourite for Mudgee mothers as there is a corner dedicated to kiddies toys but was thankfully silent when I visit, leaning more towards a senior clientele. The young staff is cute, friendly and efficient and the scones are scribbled on the ‘sweet treats’ blackboard menu, so call before a visit if it is just the scones you are after. This Devonshire Tea is definitely a snack. The two scones are literally bite size but are fluffy and rewarding nonetheless. It’s a tad on the sweet side with the amount of icing sugar sprinkled on top of the jam (that’s average) and the slightly sweetened freshly whipped cream.

Scones: