It seems you need to be stationary to notice Betie’s Cafe. Apart from the times I’ve been stuck in gridlock traffic on the Princes Highway, I am always whizzing past. Betie’s Cafe sounds like the kind of place that would serve scones, so when I make the call I’m both delighted and not too surprised. On my visit there’s a convivial vibe, and it feels like a family affair including both staff and diners. Perhaps I am crashing a pre-Christmas Sunday lunch? If traffic noise doesn’t bother you, sit outside in the tiny courtyard otherwise bask in the warm hospitality indoors. The scones are delightful: light and fluffy and sprinkled with icing sugar. The homemade mixed berry jam is perfect, fruit rich and not sweet at all. The cream is very light, which is a bummer, because the rest is top-notch.

Scones:

Jam:

 Cream:

Tea: A good range of loose-leaf teas served in a small teapot and complimented with a bone China teacup.

Price: $$

Overall: A surprising find in an unusual place.

Location: 309 Princes Hwy, Carlton NSW 2218 Ph: 02 9553 9125 betiescafe.com

Reviewed December, 2017