Having already opened 60 stores around the world, including one in San Francisco, it was a sure bet that sooner rather than later that Gram Cafe and Pancakes, the Japanese souffle-pancake chain would open up a store in Sydney. And when it did, well, Chatswood’s newest eatery was like all other ‘new and must-try’ openings with queues going out the door.
Although opening weekend saw some teething issues arise from differences between Japanese hospitality service and Australian expectations – in Japan, the premium pancakes are not available all day whereas that was the expectation here in Sydney – the Gram team listened and made quick work of resolving the issues. Now, people keep flocking to Gram to try their fluffy pancakes at both Chatswood and their newer store in the CBD.
But what is it that made these premium pancakes a new and must-try addition to Sydney’s foodie scene?
Aside from the general love that people have for pancakes, these egg-white heavy pancakes are whipped first and steamed under metal domes before being cooked, which results in their cloud-like puff and aesthetic appeal. Customers can then choose from several varieties such as matcha, caramelised banana, tiramisu, and honeyed apple with Earl Grey-cream to take them up to seventh heaven.
The ingredients themselves are imported directly from Japan and consequently cannot be found in Australia so there’s no chance of you being able to replicate them at home. (Or, so we’re told.)
Now that the kinks have been worked out, Gram’s pancakes are also available for takeaway so you can treat yourself on the go, at home or wherever your pancake craving kicks in.
Other items on the menu at Gram include french toast, classic pancakes, signature sodas, teas, lattes and frappes as well as all the regular hot drinks you’d expect to find.
Gram Cafe and Pancakes can be found at its original Sydney location of Chatswood as well as in The Galeries. It’s also available for delivery.