South End Social opens under Gosford’s finance building

WHEN they operated out of a converted warehouse in Erina, they were well known for their exceptional food, relaxing vibe and friendly staff. Now the team is turning heads in Gosford.

Fiona Killman

less than 2 min read

March 20, 2019 - 12:51PM

Central Coast Gosford Express Advocate

South End Social has opened under the Department of Finance building in Gosford. Picture: Sue Graham

WHEN they operated out of a converted warehouse in Erina, they were well known for their exceptional food, relaxing vibe and friendly staff.

Now the team from The Roller Door Espresso Bar have moved to Gosford’s new department of finance building, operating as South End Social — and they have brought all the qualities coasties have come to love with them.

Co-owner Paul O’Donnell said they were attracted to all the action and development happening in Gosford. After three years at The Roller Door, they closed in December 2018 and recently reopened at the southern end of Mann St.

Owners Michael Griffiths and Paul O’Donnell from South End Social. Picture: Sue Graham

“This opportunity came up at the right time for us,” Mr O’Donnell said.

“We are seeing many loyal customers from Erina come back which is great.

“We have a similar style menu, just bigger. We serve contemporary Australian food with an Asian and European influence. People can also grab sweets, salads and wraps on the go.”

Owners Michael Griffiths and Mr O’Donnell are also passionate about supporting local business, supplying Casa De Cha tea from Ettalong, wines from Upstairs Wines, as well as local honey and eggs.

The Green Bowl with quinoa, spinach, poached egg, avocado, sauerkraut and green dressing. Picture: Sue Graham

The food is fresh and full of flavour, with a breakfast and lunch menu as well as a small plates menu to enjoy with a drink after work.

From the breakfast menu, the Green Bowl is a deliciously tasty — and healthy — standout with quinoa, spinach, poached egg, avocado and sauerkraut.

I couldn’t say no to the pork belly tacos for lunch, covered in crispy, delectable pieces of crushed up crackling along with an avocado mousse.

Beef cheek fritters are on the Small Plates menu. Picture: Sue Graham

The Small Plates menu is designed to share with colleague or friends over a drink. This menu changes regularly, with one of the favourites the beef cheek fritters, served with a smooth white bean puree and Romesco.

Other enticing options include the salt and vinegar popcorn chicken, Szechuan pork belly pancake and the Charcuterie board.

The wine menu has 45 options, with something for everyone from either the “classic range” or “adventurous” selection. There’s a cocktail menu, also supporting local with Distillery Botanica products, as well as local beers including Six String.