South of the NSW/QLD border are the pretty beaches of Kingscliff and enough shops, restaurants and cafes along the beach side strip to keep visitors amused. The low-key seaside resort doesn’t have the va va voom of Byron Bay, but is worth a look in if meandering up or down the NSW north coast. The cafes along Marine Parade spill out onto the footpath with most having alfresco dining to take advantage of the beach vibe. The day I pass Cafe Zingara, I spot a bunch of flowerpot scones sitting on the counter. Looking more like a muffin than a scone, there’s plain or date to choose from, and although they look rather large, they are actually quite small. My date scone tastes more muffin than scone and is a tad too microwaved and chewy with an over nuked flavour. There’s nothing special about the strawberry jam, but the cream, although sweet, is thickly whipped.

Scones: 

Jam: 

Cream: 

Tea: A small variety of Madura loose-leaf teas served in a small teapot.

Price: $$

Overall: A pleasant alfresco dining option, and where else can you eat a flowerpot scone by the beach?

Location: 2/94 Marine Pde, Kingscliff NSW 2487 Ph: 02 6674 1650 www.cafezingara.com.au

Reviewed April, 2015