The Thousands

Smiths of black metals, gold and locks may all do a fine job of their trade, but Cornersmith has crafted the finest in the business of corners. Theirs is the product of the alchemy of neat white tiles, herringbone parquetry counter, marble-top tables and an open kitchen cooking, bubbling, plating and bottling.

This alchemy rewards those with the inner strength to keep their nose down as they head along Illawarra Road, past the heavens’ scent wafting from the open doors of Vietnamese restaurants (imagine yourself in that scene in The Neverending Story where men must pass the Sphinxes to get to the Oracle. “Don’t start to doubt yourself. Be confident.”).

You must keep your nose down and your eyes on the prize and you will be rewarded with a perfect cup of Mecca coffee, and a sandwich, maybe cheese or meatloaf, with a house-made pickle or relish. Maybe some sardines. And a jar of bread and butter cucumbers or jams to take home, whatever they’re currently bottling.

If only all corners were crafted this well.