Royal Gardenia

We stopped here on our way to Sydney. Didn’t check reviews or anything as there was no reception in the area. The pies are average. The one served to us was cold and hot in the middle. That’s when I realised it was frozen but heated up in the microwave. We took a couple of apple pies home, they were bearable. The views from the balcony are good but the pies are just average or below average. Now reading all the other reviews, now it makes sense to me.

Went for a drive in the mountains in my sports car. Came across this quaint unassuming cafe at 2.00 pm on a Monday. Had been driving for a few hours and wanted sustenance. The cafe has a good size eating area and a large area for retail. Looks like the stock was reduced after the Christmas / New Year period, mainly selling cider, at that moment. The proprietors are a married couple and are well mannered and easy to talk to. I asked if they had any pies left and they said that they had sold the last of the days quota. Nevertheless, I was offered a pie, if I waited 15 minutes. I ordered a Steak Pie and a pot of English Breakfast Tea, with Soy milk. The pies are all made inhouse, by them, so that is a good reason to stop by. I found the steak pie was full of well seasoned, lean beef with several good size chunks, the pie top is flaky pastry and it melts in your mouth. Succulent describes the pie and its contents. The tea was fine as well. If you would like strong tea, just ask. I found the male proprietor is a gentleman and he sincerely tried to cater for my needs and enquire if I was happy with my choices. Not too many cafes offer that type of service. I will return with my wife in coming months during the apple season in February / March. I really enjoyed the calmness of the venue and the views from my window table. A clean inside toilet is available, should you need it. A meal of home-made pies, toasties, pizza, desserts and a good variety of beverages at the Royal Gardenia Cafe, is highly recommended.

The owner is incredibly hospitable and genuinely welcoming. He goes out of his way to entertain everyone, treating guests like long-lost friends and making sure they feel warmly welcomed. The food is reasonably priced and easy to choose from, making the whole dining experience relaxed and enjoyable.

Had a great coffee and the best apple pie we’ve ever had. Apples grown in their orchard and made fresh. They will even make one with gluten free pastry if given a couple of days notice. Even bought whole pie to take home with us. Not be missed.

This place serves the best apple pie in Bilpin, just the right amount of sweetness. The view from the cafe is absolutely breathtaking. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, making the whole experience even more special. A must-stop if you’re in the area!