Gem of an idea shines

What began as a hidden gem has become one of Kenthurst’s best-kept secrets.

Jemma Kassis (third from right) with some of her team.

What began as a hidden gem has become one of Kenthurst’s best-kept secrets.

Hidden Jem Cafe was opened six months ago by 19-year-old local Jemma Kassis. It was a dream come true for Jemma, who worked in her uncle’s Castle Hill cafe for a year before snapping up the Nelson St site and building her own.

Smashed avo with poached eggs, grilled tomato and haloumi served on rye ($16).

The Breaky Bowl has yoghurt topped with addictively good granola, fruit, chia seeds, pistachio and honey ($12).

“A lot of people said you’re too young ... but how else do you learn without jumping in?” she said.

Jemma said she always knew she would open her own cafe. She registered the Hidden Jem name two years ago and had a sketch on her bedroom door of what her dream venue would look like.

“I started buying things before I even had the cafe and my mum would say, ‘What are you doing?’,” she said.

Homemade scones served with jam and cream.

The cafe serves Toby’s Estate coffee.

“And I would say, ‘It is for my cafe’, and she would say, ‘You don’t have a cafe!’”

But by February Jemma did have a cafe, one that has become popular with all demographics – from foodies ready to Instagram the drool-worthy dishes to families enjoying a quiet lunch, and tradies grabbing a morning coffee to go.

With great food, friendly service and modern decor, this crown jewel will not stay hidden for long.

Hidden Jem Cafe in Kenthurst serves all-day breakfast and lunch plus coffee, smoothies and shakes in a bright, airy setting.

The Sammy’s Board, named after Jemma’s dad, includes all of his favourite things: scrambled eggs, olives, haloumi, labneh, mushroom and toasted sourdough with za’atar ($17).

What: All-day breakfast and lunch plus coffee, smoothies and shakes

Where: 4 Nelson St, Kenthurst

When: Mon-Fri. 6am — 4pm, Sat-Sun 7am — 3pm. Kitchen closes at 2pm.

Prices: Meals range from $8-$18

Details: Website or Facebook