I love hanging somewhere relaxed and unique for a drink and a bite to eat. Add in some good old wholesome community vibes and the Kiosk has the game, set and match all wrapped up!

The Kiosk is located in the quaint little club house at The Tennis Club in Cessnock. The paved undercover outdoor area, fresh white cottage-like walls, scattered plants and rustic looking wooden furniture make for a really nice vibe.

It is relaxed, and almost like you’re hanging with friends and family in your backyard (if you have a tennis court at home that is). And once we had a chat with the Facility Manager, Sonia, we realised that it’s most likely their community spirit and general approach to the Kiosk business that gives it these feels.

The Tennis Club is a not for profit community organisation that has been going, in some form, for over 103 years. The Kiosk opened in 2020 with the aim of offering the local community, and visitors to the area, somewhere casual to hang out and have something to eat - all set amongst a tennis club environment.

It was that unique combination that got our attention, so we headed up to check it out.

The menu is a small one that is suitable for both breakie or lunch (or a snack in between) with simple and wholesome foods such as bacon and eggs on local sourdough, herbie toast, tacos, old school dippy eggs and the classic BLT.

They have some scrummy sweet treats too, many of which are home baked by Sarah, The Kiosk and Event Manager, so we had to try the scones and caramel slice! Delish!

There are the usual hot drinks and milkshakes available and some cold drinks too. My personal fav was the all natural Passionfruit Soda by Famous Soda Co which was super refreshing, Australian made and best bit … low in calories and sugar.

Much of the ingredients are locally sourced such as the Hungerford Hill Bacon and some, like the herbs, are even grown on site.

You can even order online which is a good option if you want to grab some tucker or coffees on the go.

And the little ones, both the human and furry kind, are welcome. The kids have access to a court where they can run around or have a hit - the perfect way to burn off some energy whilst you enjoy a coffee.

And your fur babies will love the outdoor shaded area that makes it perfect for them to join you on your social outing. Sonia’s dog Tammy is a regular - she did originally belong to a member of the club that couldn’t care for her anymore, so in that true community spirit Sonia took her in.

The community spirit is also shown through the collaborations with local small businesses. The Kiosk @ The Tennis Club often hosts workshops such as flower arranging with Noah and the Fox and little pop up shops when local businesses come in and sell their wares. On the day we visited Jess from Green Sista Plants Co and Renae from Little Rituals Beauty had gorgeous potted plants, soaps and cleansing bundles on display which was an added element making for a nice morning out.

And let’s not forget you are at a Tennis Club, so pop on that activewear and have a hit whilst you are there. The facilities are pretty substantial with 12 courts and lights for a game at night. Courts are available for $28 per hour during the day or if you want to play more regularly it is probably worth becoming a Tennis Club Member with annual 2021 prices starting at $149 for adults. And keep an eye out for new activities happening there soon.

The Kiosk is a great spot for the locals and a good option for breakfast or a light lunch for visitors to the region. So whether you are there to play some tennis and the café is a bonus post game hang or whether you are only reading FOOD from this article - we can recommend a visit to this community based business.