I don’t have to do too much sweet-talking to get into the Balgowlah RSL club. Rules apply, and if you live within a five-kilometre radius of the club, it’s time to flash your badge or head back out the door. It’s a few minutes after opening, and I sneak in after a few punters arrive. As far as RSL clubs go, this one is small. Even though Cafe Aqua is in the middle of the building, I can still see daylight out past the bistro that’s only a few steps down from the cafe. The cafe is big enough so there’s no chance on missing out on seating but small enough to create a ‘cafe vibe’. After a 10-minute wait, the scones finally arrive; fresh and straight out of the oven. They are slightly crispy on the outside, and whether they are or are not, I don’t know, but they taste like they are made from a pre-packaged scone mix. Regardless, they are surprisingly good. There is lots of the super light cream and only two lousy portion controlled strawberry jams. I ask for two more almost immediately, and are given them without hesitation.
Scones: 
Jam: 
Cream:
Tea: A basic range of Twining tea bags served in a small pot.
Price: $$ (member and non-member prices that differ by 50c)
Overall: Handy for a quick bite if you are already in the club.
Location: Balgowlah RSL, 30/38 Ethel St, Seaforth NSW 2092 Ph: 02 9949 5477
Reviewed October, 2017
