Competition amongst cafes serving scones is fierce in the Southern Highlands. Bee & Bear Cafe replaces an existing cafe, which was at the same premises. The cafe has had some sprucing up, so it no longer looks like a takeaway sandwich shop with bits ‘n’ pieces from the farmyard attached to the walls. The decor has been toned down, the counter position rearranged and a pleasant dining area set up out front. The scones don’t taste like they were baked today, and are a bit burnt on top. The strawberry jam is gelatinous, like the jams that were sold in cans back in the 1970s. I don’t mind it, as it reminds me of my childhood and its not as sickly sweet as many of the cheap jams served up with scones. The fresh cream from a cream canister is very light, and compared to the amount of jam served, is ridiculously lacking in volume.

Scones: 

Jam:

Cream: 

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

Price: $$

Overall: A chilled cafe slightly away from Berrima’s madding crowd.

Location: Shop 5/15 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima NSW 2577 Ph: 02 4877 1117 facebook.com

Reviewed May 2019