Mud Australia Double Bay

Run by husband-and-wife team James Kirton and Shelley Simpson, Mud Australia has stores across Sydney, Melbourne, London and New York.

The store, located away from the chaos of New South Head Road in the tranquil Kiaora Lane has an inviting garden area designed by Richard Northcott from Fresh Prince. Flowers match the pastels of the ceramics. Herbs such as rosemary and lavender make the area picturesque and aromatic.

Kirton and Simpson worked with Piero Pignatti Morano (ex-Deus Ex Machina) and Richie Maxfield (ex-Little Marionette) of Two Chaps on the opening of the cafe. Coffee is supplied by Two Chap’s own Blind Coffee Roaster, and tea by organic Bondi brand, Mayde Tea. It is served in delicate pistachio-, milk- or citrus-coloured teapots and mugs.

A selection of baked goods includes items from Flour and Stone and Two Chaps. Options rotate, but a standout is a slice of Flour and Stone’s gooey flourless chocolate, raspberry and buttermilk cake, served on a perfect eggshell-blue saucer. The result is possibly the best-looking coffee and cake in Sydney.