The Heritage Gardens Nursery looks like any other garden centre from the carpark. The gift shop is part garden and homeware shop, and is the point of entry and exit. The grounds are quite lovely, with lush lawns and the nursery itself in its own section. You have to look hard for the Heritage Gardens Cafe as it’s nicely hidden in the garden centre. Walk past rows of shrubs, herbs, flowers and trees, and through those lush lawns before entering the cafe. The cafe is shaded by foliage, which is ideal on summer days. There’s indoor and outdoor dining in the main building, plus umbrella shaded tables in the courtyard. The two large lemon scented scones are fresh and have a creamy texture. They are served cool rather than warm, but that’s okay as it’s hot when I visit. The mixed berry jam is housemade and pairs well with the rich double thick cream. The cafe closes at 3.30pm, so don’t linger too long over the azaleas.
Scones:
Jam:
Cream:
Tea: A handful of T2 loose-leaf teas served in a teapot.
Price: $$
Overall: It doesn’t feel like you are in a cafe in a garden centre.
Location: Heritage Gardens Nursery, 9 Four Mile Creek Rd, Ashtonfield NSW 2323
Ph: 02 4966 5233 heritagegardens.com.au
Reviewed February 2019