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Southeast Asian Flavours Shine at Island Radio’s Noodle Bar in Redfern

A new player has entered Sydney’s bustling dining scene, and it’s setting its sights on becoming one of the city’s best-value banquets. Welcome to Island Radio, a vibrant Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant and noodle bar that’s already making waves in Redfern.

Read: Taguan Cafe: Redfern Filipino Hideaway Serving the ‘Second-Best Adobo’

A Taste of Southeast Asia

Opened in November, Island Radio is bursting with colour, music, and an inviting laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in bold flavours.

At the Noodle Bar, diners can pull up a stool from Wednesday to Friday as drinks start pouring at 4:00 pm, with the noodle action kicking off from 5:00 p.m. The menu boasts a tempting lineup, including spicy pork noodles with sambal matah and garlic shoots, and the must-try sambal fried rice loaded with calamari and prawns—smoky, spicy, and packed with flavour.

For those craving a more extensive feast, the Eating House delivers with a menu crafted by Chef Andy Wirya (formerly of Bondi’s Easy Tiger), drawing inspiration from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Great value abounds with a $39 three-dish lunch menu and a six-dish banquet starting at just $44.50. Wines start at $10.50 per glass, while spicy noodle bowls begin at $15, ensuring top-notch dining without the hefty price tag.

Cocktails, DJs, & Private Karaoke

Island Radio isn’t just about the food—it’s quickly gaining a reputation for its tropical-inspired cocktails and zero-proof refreshments. Whether you’re sipping an ice-cold beer or diving into a bold new cocktail, the drinks menu delivers perfect summer vibes.

If you’re after a little more action, Thursday to Saturday nights bring a live DJ into the main dining room, creating an electric atmosphere. Or, if you’re in the mood for a private party, their 12-person private dining rooms come equipped with a karaoke lounge, setting the scene for an unforgettable night.

Read: Get Ready for Sana: South Eveleigh’s New Healthy Dining Destination

With its dynamic energy, bold flavours, and unbeatable value, Island Radio is already shaping up to be Redfern’s newest go-to dining spot. Whether you’re after a quick noodle fix, a banquet feast, or a night of drinks and music, this lively venue has you covered. Pull up a stool, grab a cocktail, and let the good times flow.

Published 17-February-2025

City of Sydney Backs $490m Life Sciences Campus in Waterloo

Photo Credit: D/2024/937

Did you know that Waterloo could soon have a new, $490-million life sciences precinct? The new development will mark a significant step towards establishing Australia’s first commercialised life sciences campus.

The project (D/2024/937), led by Kurraba Group, aims to advance medical and health sciences research while creating thousands of jobs in the region.

Life sciences campus — *Photo Credit: D/2024/937*

Project Scope and Development Timeline

The precinct, which will span 26,000 square metres at 74-108 Botany Road and 86-100 Wyndham Street, will feature advanced laboratories, collaborative research spaces, and commercial infrastructure. If planning approvals proceed as expected, construction could commence by early 2025.

The design includes:

A stepped building along Botany Road, ranging from seven to eleven storeys.
A five-storey research facility on Wyndham Street.
A Proton Therapy Cancer Treatment Centre, providing advanced cancer treatment options.

The project was designed by Gensler, a global architecture firm that won the Architect’s Design Excellence Competition. The campus incorporates sustainability principles and acknowledges the First Nations heritage of the area.

Medical research — *Photo Credit: Kurraba Group*

Economic and Employment Impact

The precinct is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for Waterloo and surrounding areas.

1,200 jobs are anticipated during the construction phase.
1,700 long-term positions will be created once the precinct is fully operational.
Proximity to Royal Prince Alfred and St Vincent’s hospitals, as well as major universities including the University of Sydney, UNSW, and UTS, will encourage collaboration among researchers, healthcare professionals, and students.

With Australia’s life sciences industry expanding by 43% since 2019, according to Austrade, this precinct is expected to attract investment, retain research talent, and enhance Sydney’s global position in medical research.

Waterloo development — *Photo Credit: D/2024/937*

Community Concerns and Local Impact

Despite its economic and scientific benefits, the project has raised concerns among local residents.

Some have highlighted construction-related disruptions, including noise, vibration, dust, and congestion.
Others have expressed worries over privacy, overshadowing, and the impact on existing homes.

Residents have called for a balanced assessment of the project’s benefits and challenges, urging the City of Sydney to consider the implications for long-term community members.

Strengthening Australia’s Medical Research Industry

Kurraba Group has positioned the development as a major step in Australia’s life sciences growth, aiming to accelerate research and commercialisation efforts. The precinct is expected to provide purpose-built facilities to retain Australian intellectual property and medical advancements, rather than seeing them developed offshore.

This project aligns with the Botany Road Precinct Vision, a broader redevelopment strategy that was introduced in 2022. The rezoning initiative aims to add 280,000 square metres of commercial floor space and create 14,500 jobs, making the area a major centre for knowledge-based industries.

Next Steps

The City of Sydney’s Central Planning Committee is set to make a final decision on the project in the coming weeks. If approved, Waterloo will become a leading location for medical research and biotechnology, supporting Australia’s role in scientific innovation and commercial development.

Published 15-Feb-2025

Telstra to Sell Part of Redfern Exchange in $20-M Deal

Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View

Telstra is set to partially decommission and sell part of its Redfern Telephone Exchange, offering a significant inner-city redevelopment opportunity. The 7-storey building at 103-109 George Street, sitting on a 1,260-square-metre block, is expected to fetch around $20 million through an international expressions of interest campaign.

Telstra has been gradually selling off commercial properties in recent years, including its 16-storey Sydney CBD building, which was sold to Charter Hall for $281 million in 2020. The company has also been divesting smaller suburban telephone exchanges as it modernises its telecommunications infrastructure.

The Redfern Exchange sale follows this trend, with Telstra opting for a sale-and-leaseback arrangement, allowing it to continue operations while transferring essential infrastructure to an adjacent building.

Redfern Exchange: Site Details and Redevelopment Potential

The Redfern Telephone Exchange at 103-109 George Street is a 7-storey, 4,000-square-metre building with protected 360-degree views, thanks to heritage restrictions on surrounding properties. The site is currently zoned E1 Local Centre, allowing for a range of redevelopment options (STCA), including:

Residential housing
Student accommodation
Co-living spaces
Traditional office spaces
Medical developments

According to Knight Frank’s Will Brassil, the property’s current building envelope exceeds planning codes, making it a high-value asset for developers looking to capitalise on its existing structure and zoning flexibility.

Market Demand: Offshore Investors Show Interest

There has been renewed demand for inner-city development sites, particularly among offshore investors. Knight Frank’s Andrew Harford stated that interest from Southeast Asian capital is growing, leading to strong competition with local buyers.

Mr Harford also pointed to Knight Frank’s Australian Horizon 2025 report, which suggests that now is an optimal time to invest in commercial property, with market recovery expected from mid-2025.

Telstra — *Photo Credit: Network Architectural*

What Happens Next?

The International Expressions of Interest campaign for the Redfern Exchange is expected to attract significant developer interest, given its prime location, existing infrastructure, and zoning flexibility. The sale is being managed by Knight Frank agents Will Brassil, Andrew Harford, and James Masselos, with advisory input from Charter Keck Cramer.

Once the sale and leaseback arrangement concludes, Telstra will fully decommission the site and finalise infrastructure relocation. The new owner will then seek approvals for redevelopment based on Sydney’s evolving property market demands.

Published 15-Feb-2025

Woolworths Unveils $165M Mixed-Use Precinct in Waterloo

Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208

Fabcot Pty Ltd, the development arm of the Woolworths Group has submitted a $165.86-million proposal to redevelop 923–935 Bourke Street in Waterloo into a mixed-use precinct featuring residential apartments, retail spaces, and a full-line supermarket. The project aims to revitalise the site, in line with Sydney’s urban renewal strategy.

Woolworths supermarket design for Waterloo development. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

A New Vision for Waterloo

Fabcot has lodged a Development Application (DA/2024/1208) with public consultation open until 17 February 2025. The site will host a mix of residential, retail, and commercial spaces, creating a new urban hub for the area.

Residential apartments in the Bourke Street precinct. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Designed by Bates Smart, who won a competitive design process over firms including Koichi Takada Architects and SJB, the project seeks to integrate the cultural and natural heritage of Waterloo into its architectural expression. The development will include part eight and part six-level buildings with materials and design elements inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Residential and Commercial Features

Residential Apartments:

110 apartments offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units
68% of apartments designed with dual aspects for optimal natural light and ventilation
Six terrace homes along Young Street, managed by City West Housing for affordable housing
Communal amenities including landscaped courtyards and rooftop gardens

Woolworth Waterloo — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Retail and Commercial Spaces:

6,850 sqm of retail and commercial space
Full-line Woolworths supermarket with Direct-to-Boot and e-commerce services
Specialty stores, cafés, and restaurants activating the streetscape
2,000 sqm of flexible office space for local businesses and employment opportunities
Five-storey commercial building at McEvoy and Bourke Streets, serving as a workplace hub and precinct landmark

Public Spaces and Sustainability

Fabcot’s proposal places a strong emphasis on sustainability and green spaces. A landscaped public plaza will serve as a communal gathering point, with pedestrian pathways connecting Bourke, Young, and McEvoy Streets. The project will also retain mature trees to enhance biodiversity and provide natural shading.

Architectural design by Bates Smart for Waterloo project. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Key sustainability features include:

Solar panels to reduce energy consumption.
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support sustainable transport.
Rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation and water conservation.
Low-carbon materials to minimise the environmental footprint.

To support accessibility, the development includes 224 basement parking spaces for residents, visitors, and retail customers. Dedicated bicycle and motorcycle parking will also be available.

Artist impression of the proposed Waterloo precinct. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Next Steps for Approval

The public consultation period for the project runs until 17 February 2025. Residents are urged to submit feedback via the City of Sydney’s website. Pending approval, the development will move forward to the construction phase, bringing Fabcot’s long-awaited vision for Waterloo to life.

SUBMIT FEEDBACK

Published 7-Feb-2025

Neon Playground 2.0 : A Festival of Light, Music, and Culture Returns to Chinatown

Photo Credit: Neon Playground/Facebook

Neon Playground 2.0 is set to light up Chinatown and Haymarket, promising an unforgettable mix of neon art, live music, performances, and Asian street food.

The festival starting from 15 March to 6 April 2025 follows the successful 2022 debut with an expected 350,000 visitors. It will be one of the biggest celebrations of Asian-Australian creativity and culture in the city.

Bringing New Energy to Chinatown

Neon Playground 2.0 returns with fresh momentum, backed by a $200,000 grant from the City of Sydney. This funding aims to revitalise Chinatown and Haymarket, drawing more foot traffic and supporting local businesses.

Sydney’s Lord Mayor, Clover Moore AO, emphasised the importance of investing in Chinatown’s future.

She said that the city allocated a long-term financial plan of $44 million to fund Chinatown’s success.

Neon Lights, Live Entertainment & a Feast of Flavours

Chinatown’s streets will glow with stunning neon light installations designed by Asian-Australian artists. The festival will also feature live music, DJs, dance performances, and cultural showcases, ensuring an exciting atmosphere throughout.

Neon Playground 2.0 — Photo Credit: *Neon Playground/Facebook*

Food lovers can indulge in some of the best Asian street food from top vendors and restaurants.

Building on Past Success

When Neon Playground debuted in 2022, it transformed Dixon Street with large-scale street art, interactive installations, and high-energy performances. Organised by Haymarket Alliance, the event played a key role in helping Chinatown bounce back after the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Kevin Cheng, Manager of Haymarket Alliance, believes this year’s festival will be even bigger.

Cheng highlighted that Neon Playground 2.0 will create opportunities for organisations like Haymarket Alliance to support large-scale events that benefit the entire district. By attracting more visitors, the festival will help boost foot traffic and bring new energy to the area.

The ultimate goal is to establish Neon Playground 2.0 as Sydney’s largest Asian-Australian creative festival.

A New Era for Chinatown

Beyond Neon Playground, Chinatown is undergoing significant upgrades. Restoration work has begun on the Chinatown Ceremonial Gates, with plans to repaint structures, install new lighting, and repair key architectural features.

Additionally, a new grant program is offering support for Dixon Street businesses to enhance their shopfronts, further modernising the precinct.

Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Event

With its dazzling neon art, energetic performances, and incredible food, Neon Playground 2.0 will be one of Sydney’s most exciting events in 2025. As Chinatown continues to evolve, the festival will highlight the talent and creativity of Asian-Australian artists and businesses.

Mark your calendar—Neon Playground 2.0 kicks off on 15 March 2025, bringing three weeks of non-stop energy to the heart of Chinatown.

Published 6-Feb-2025

Redfern Families Cut From Inner Sydney High Catchment Amid Controversial Changes

A section of Redfern has been removed from the catchment of Inner Sydney High School, forcing some families to enrol their children in schools farther away, despite their proximity to the sought-after public high school. Parents say the decision splits the community in two and raises concerns about access to quality education in the inner city.

The school’s intake zone had been quietly reduced, cutting parts of Redfern, Double Bay, Woollahra, and Centennial Park from Inner Sydney High’s catchment. The changes mean students in these areas will now be redirected to Randwick High School, Rose Bay Secondary College, or Alexandria Park Community School. The adjustment follows increasing demand for Inner Sydney High, which has reached near full capacity with 1,000 students enrolled out of a maximum 1,080.

Alexandria Park Community School — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Redfern Parents Left Frustrated

Parents in Redfern say the boundary changes are unfair, particularly because some students are now zoned away from their closest school. One parent, who has a daughter affected by the decision, said the shift in boundaries makes little sense, as her child could walk to Inner Sydney High in under 10 minutes but will now have to commute farther to a different school.

Another local parent said Inner Sydney High has become a key part of the Redfern community, and removing access for some families will divide the neighbourhood. Some parents deliberately bought homes within the original catchment to ensure their children could attend, only to find themselves suddenly rezoned.

The situation is especially frustrating for families in western Redfern, where a large number of Indigenous and social housing communities are located. The revised catchment has removed about a quarter of Redfern, sparking concerns that students from lower-income backgrounds will have fewer options for quality public education.

Randwick High School — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Why the Boundaries Have Changed

The NSW Department of Education has defended the decision, saying the changes will help keep primary school students together as they transition into high school. Under the previous zoning, students from some local primary schools were being split across multiple high schools, which the department wanted to address.

The department also pointed out that capacity issues at Inner Sydney High were a factor in the decision. When the school opened in 2020, it was intended to help meet demand for public secondary education in the eastern suburbs and inner city. However, high enrolment numbers have led to a tightening of catchment boundaries.

With the newly amalgamated Randwick High School now offering a co-ed public education option, the department argues that students who were previously zoned for Inner Sydney High will still have access to high-quality alternatives.

SCHOOL FINDER

Randwick High and the Broader Trend of School Changes

Randwick High School, formed by merging Randwick Girls High and Randwick Boys High, is part of a statewide shift towards co-education in public schools. The new co-ed school has already seen an increase in enrolments, with 300 new Year 7 students in 2025—a 30 per cent jump from previous years.

This reflects a broader trend in Sydney’s education system, where schools are merging and changing formats to meet community demand. Other areas, including Crows Nest and Kellyville, have also faced school boundary adjustments, sparking similar concerns from parents about longer commutes and changes in school access.

What’s Next for Affected Families?

For families impacted by the Inner Sydney High catchment changes, options remain limited. Some parents have started petitions and community discussions to urge the NSW Education Department to reconsider the boundary shift. Others are now weighing up the possibility of enrolling their children in private schools or moving to a suburb where their preferred public school is still accessible.

With Sydney’s public school enrolments growing and capacity pressures increasing, it remains to be seen whether the department will reassess the catchment map in future years. For now, Redfern parents say they will continue to push for fairer access to quality public education in their community.

Published 7-February-2025

From Lifesaving to Delivery: UNSW Degree Trains Next Generation of Drone Pilots

From saving lives at the beach to delivering groceries, drones are becoming a part of everyday life, and UNSW is preparing students for this shift with a new aviation degree.

The University of New South Wales has introduced a Bachelor of Aviation – Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems in response to a projected boom in drone usage across Australia, with forecasts predicting an increase from 1.5 million annual drone flights in 2023 to 60.4 million by 2043.

A growing industry with new career opportunities

Drones are rapidly transforming industries, from agriculture and emergency services to food delivery and environmental monitoring. A report by Airservices Australia estimates that by 2043, Australian farmers will conduct 500,000 drone flights annually to monitor crops, while drones will be responsible for 1.5 million food deliveries per year. Emergency services, including surf lifesaving and police operations, are also expected to deploy drones for 80,000 missions annually.

With this demand, the aviation sector is undergoing what UNSW experts describe as a generational shift, requiring a new workforce trained in drone operations, regulatory knowledge, and technical skills. To meet this need, UNSW’s program offers a mix of practical flying experience and academic coursework, positioning graduates at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.

Hands-on training with industry leaders

Students enrolled in the new degree will complete 80 hours of flight experience, including 40 hours of crewed aircraft training alongside students in the Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) program. The remaining 40 hours focus on drone operations, split between multi-rotor and fixed-wing equipment.

A key component of the degree is its partnership with Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW), where students gain real-world experience using drones to search for missing swimmers, detect sharks, and assist in emergency responses such as floods and bushfires. This hands-on training bridges traditional aviation principles with the evolving demands of drone technology.

An evolving curriculum to meet industry needs

Unlike traditional aviation degrees, this program integrates management, programming, information systems, and aviation law to provide students with a broad skill set. Graduates will earn both a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) and a Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL), allowing them to operate drones in commercial settings or move into broader aviation roles.

According to Dr Graham Doig, a senior lecturer at UNSW’s School of Aviation, the industry is at a pivotal moment where Australia has the opportunity to lead the world in drone aviation. He predicts that within the next decade, large autonomous aircraft will be a common sight in Australian airspace, reinforcing the importance of training specialists who can manage and operate these systems.

UNSW drones — *Photo Credit: UNSW Sydney*

Preparing students for the future of aviation

UNSW is the only Group of Eight (Go8) university offering aviation degrees, making it a leader in this field. The School of Aviation has been educating pilots and aviation professionals for over 25 years and collaborates with industry leaders such as Qantas, Airservices Australia, CASA, and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.

The Bachelor of Aviation (RPAS) is designed to equip students with both technical expertise and strategic thinking skills, preparing them for careers in emergency response, commercial drone operations, defence, and surveying. With the rapid expansion of the drone sector, UNSW graduates are expected to be in high demand across various industries.

Published 30-January-2025

Redfern Residents Rally Against 24/7 McDonald’s

Photo Credit: D/2024/1218

A proposal to build a 24-hour McDonald’s in the heart of Redfern has ignited a firestorm of opposition from residents who fear the development will compromise the character of their historic suburb.

The proposed $3 million, two-storey restaurant on Redfern Street, the suburb’s main artery for dining and shopping, has become a lightning rod for community concern. The development application, lodged with the City of Sydney council, is open for public comment until February 6, and has already sparked heated debate online.

The proposed location, situated directly adjacent to Mr Charlies, a popular vegan establishment known for its playful parody of McDonald’s, adds fuel to the fire. This proximity and a separate application for another fast-food outlet, Charlie Chargrill, overwhelms many residents.

Community Backlash

A call for feedback on the “Residential Redfern” Facebook page has been met with a torrent of responses, largely critical of the proposal. While some residents acknowledge the potential for increased foot traffic to benefit local businesses, the prevailing sentiment is strongly opposed.

Concerns over Community Impact

Redfern resident Nicola Mansfield, representing a group of concerned residents, has formally complained with the council, citing “significant urban planning concerns.” The group believes the 24-hour McDonald’s will negatively impact the community regarding amenity, safety, and heritage. They are particularly concerned about the lack of prior consultation with police and the community.

Local business owners have also voiced their anxieties. David Jank, co-owner of Arcadia Liquors, located just two doors down from the proposed site, expressed concern about the “enormous change” the development represents, calling it “insensitive” to the area’s history and existing social issues.

Tom Whittle, the General Manager of The Dock, a bar across from the proposed site, expressed scepticism about the potential benefits while acknowledging the area’s inevitable change.

A “Step Backwards”

Gabriel, the Tudor Hotel’s licensee, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the development represents a “step backwards” for Redfern, which has undergone a positive transformation in recent years.

This view is shared by long-time resident Joe Ambour, who will soon close his hardware store, Ambour Hardware, after 55 years. Ambour lamented the changing face of Redfern, viewing the new McDonald’s as a symbol of shifting consumer preferences towards cheapness and convenience over traditional customer service.

Council Remains Neutral

A spokesperson for Lord Mayor Clover Moore stated that the council must remain neutral during the development assessment process to ensure impartiality.

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Published Date 28-Jan-2025

Get Ready for Sana: South Eveleigh’s New Healthy Dining Destination

Sydney’s food scene is about to welcome a new star as Sana, a fast-casual dining spot, opens its doors this February.

Read: Vintage Vibes, Modern Offerings: The New Era of The Bat & Ball Hotel

The brainchild of Daniel Sorridimi, owner of Blackwood Bondi and Cronulla, and Chef Joel Bennetts, this innovative eatery promises to bring healthy, flavour-packed meals to the heart of South Eveleigh.

Sorridimi developed the concept after noticing a growing demand for quick, health-conscious dining options, inspired by the trend’s expansion in the U.S. The name “Sana,” which means “healthy” in Spanish, reflects the restaurant’s focus on wholesome, high-quality produce and vibrant, delicious flavours.

Chef Joel Bennetts led the menu development, crafting a range of house-made pickles, seasoned proteins, and customisable bowls that are as satisfying as they are nutritious. Customers can mix and match their meal by selecting a base—Mediterranean basmati rice, cauliflower rice, lettuce, or cabbage—paired with a protein like salmon, lamb mince, chicken, or falafel, and finished with fresh, bold toppings.

Red Harissa Chicken (Photo credit: Sana/Instagram)

Among the standout dishes is the Red Harissa Chicken Bowl, featuring Mediterranean rice, house-made slaw, spicy almonds, and sweet-sour pickles—a perfect balance of heat, crunch, and tang.

Sana’s Instagram teases a menu “inspired by the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean and the Middle East,” offering options like spiced lamb mince reminiscent of Lebanese food markets, Korean-style pickled carrots, and basmati rice infused with lemon and herbs. The restaurant will offer seven signature bowls, customised bowls, protein plates, and six flavourful rolls, catering to both adventurous palates and those seeking comfort in simple, fresh ingredients.

Read: Taguan Cafe: Redfern Filipino Hideaway Serving the ‘Second-Best Adobo’

If you’re in the area, Sana promises a lunch experience that’s fresh, fast, and full of flavour. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or looking for a healthier dining option, this new spot is set to redefine the way South Eveleigh does lunch. You can find Sana at 8/1 Locomotive Street, Eveleigh.

Published 20-January-2025

Taguan Cafe: Redfern Filipino Hideaway Serving the ‘Second-Best Adobo’

Photo Credit: Taguan Cafe/Instagram

Taguan Cafe has opened in Redfern, offering Filipino comfort food with a focus on their family-recipe adobo, dubbed the “second-best adobo,” alongside coffee and unique dishes like banana ketchup bacon and egg rolls and slow-cooked beef pares toasties.

When Jose Margo Flores and Vincent Mark Baquiran opened Taguan Cafe at 191 Regent Street, Redfern, they faced scepticism about whether Filipino cuisine would resonate with the community. Undeterred, they leant into their vision of bringing Filipino flavours to an Australian setting, showcasing classic dishes like their signature adobo and tokwa especial.

Taguan Cafe Redfern — *Photo Caption: The owners of Taguan Cafe – Vincent Mark Baquiran and Jose Margo Flores.*
*Photo Credit: Taguan Cafe/Instagram*

Mr Flores, a former advertising professional from Manila, found himself in Baguio during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seeking solace and a fresh start, he created the first Taguan Cafe there as a personal sanctuary, accompanied by his Pomeranian, Yakult. This journey of resilience and reinvention is at the heart of Taguan Cafe’s story.

Over time, the cafe evolved into a community space, where customers shared their stories over cups of coffee. Inspired by its success and with the support of his partner Mr Baquiran, Mr Flores took the next step and brought Taguan Cafe to Australia, settling in Redfern.

A Taste of Home Away from Home

The centrepiece of Taguan Cafe’s menu is Mr Baquiran’s late father’s adobo recipe, served with garlic rice, fried potato slices, and a jammy boiled egg. The dish represents a blend of tradition and adaptation, as Mr Baquiran’s family, having lived in Saudi Arabia, modified their recipe based on available ingredients. The name “second-best adobo” is a nod to the belief that no adobo can surpass a home-cooked version.

Taguan Cafe's second-best adobo — *Photo Caption: Tatay’s Adobo with garlic rice, braised chicken, adobo egg, crispy potatoes, and aromatic spices.*
*Photo Credit: Taguan Cafe/Instagram*

Blending Cultures Through Food:

Taguan Cafe’s menu is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. It features Filipino-inspired Australian cafe classics such as ube lattes and banana ketchup bacon and egg rolls. Mr Flores and Mr Baquiran made a conscious decision to retain traditional Filipino dish names like tokwa especial, believing in the importance of cultural authenticity.

The cafe operates from Monday to Friday, 6.30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., and on weekends from 8.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.

A Warm Welcome in Redfern:

Despite initial doubts, Taguan Cafe has been warmly embraced by the Redfern community. While Filipino patrons appreciate the authenticity, many first-time customers are discovering Filipino cuisine for the first time and responding with enthusiasm.

Filipino hideaway cafe Redfern — *Photo Credit: Ube Grilled Cheese—crispy, golden, with vibrant purple ube and melted cheese, served warmly.*
*Photo Credit: Taguan Cafe/Instagram*

Looking Ahead

Mr Flores and Mr Baquiran have exciting plans for the future of Taguan Cafe. They aim to continue expanding their menu while maintaining the core values of authenticity and community. Their goal is to make Taguan Cafe a staple in the diverse culinary landscape of Redfern.

Taguan Cafe is carving out a niche in Redfern by offering authentic Filipino comfort food in a welcoming setting. As more people discover their “second-best adobo,” the cafe continues to bridge cultures through food and hospitality.

Published 20-Jan-2025