A few years ago I had a superb Devonshire Tea in the very feminine Le Beau Cafe. I’m not sure whether the cafe had a makeover to become what is now Common Grounds, as there is no sign on Google of any cafe closure. The cafe layout is pretty much the same, the large semi-enclosed deck out the back is still a sun catcher, but gone is anything alluding France. Even the former pale blue colour scheme has been neutralised. What hasn’t changed are the scones, they are still melt-in-your-mouth light and fluffy. The raspberry jam is better than most, although they need to double up on the amount. There’s enough fresh cream but its quite light, dispensed from a cream canister. Although the quality of the scones and tea is high, the overall cost of the spread reflects this and is higher than in other cafes in regional Australia.

Scones: 

Jam:

Cream:  

Tea: Not a bad range of loose-leaf teas served in a teapot.

Price: $$$

Overall: Lovely dining on the back deck, however a bit overpriced.

Location: 4/142 Swan St, Morpeth NSW 2321 Ph: 0499 342 002 m.facebook.com

Reviewed June 2019