Peninsula locals grab latte by horseback

YOU might say seeing a couple of horses tied up outside a Sydney cafe is an unusual sight but these two are regulars and enjoy the dregs of their owners’ coffees at the end of their stay.

A COUPLE of horses were seen parked outside a cafe on Sydney’s northern beaches yesterday — but the unusual scene wasn’t a one-off because they’re regulars.

Dakota and Ned were spotted enjoying a quick latte at Zubi Espresso in Narrabeen on Wednesday with their owner, Syd Slavin and his friend Phoebe Custer.

Mr Slavin said he often uses his four-legged friends to grab a coffee or just to get around town.

“I get a lot of pleasure doing what I do, riding around the streets of Narrabeen, Mona Vale, Collaroy and calling in to places like Zubi,” he said.

“Lots of people say keep up the good work, take photos and bring their kids to pat them.”

Dakota and Ned stand patiently while their owners get their caffeine fix.

Mr Slavin, who has been riding the horses for more than 20 years, said the unusual type of transportation is getting harder.

“With the volume of traffic and people in a hurry, it’s getting more tough,” he said.

According to Mr Slavin, Dakota and Ned enjoy a hit of caffeine, licking the cup once he’s finished.

Mr Slavin also owns a Clydesdale and uses him for his horse and cart sometimes. He said this too had become difficult with traffic.