Salma’s Canteen

Enmore bakery Saga’s closure in June 2023 might have broken a few hearts, but appetites were more than piqued by owner Andy Bowden’s assurance that a new project was coming soon.

That project is Salma’s Canteen, a “part kitchen, part takeaway, part diner, and part shop” in Rosebery, which is a partnership between pastry chef Bowden and his Saga collaborator Maddison Howes, and restaurateurs Michael Rantissi and Kristy Frawley from Redfern’s Middle Eastern eatery Kepos Street Kitchen.

Seasonal and vibrant local produce stars across the offering, which spans Bowden’s beloved sweets (including a salted honey tart, yuzu cheesecake, and savoury puff pastry tarts topped with seasonal vegetables), daily-changing proteins, salads and dips in the cabinet, grab-and-go sandwiches, and DIY elements like tart shells, curds, and Rantissi’s savoury fillings to be assembled at home.

Assuring wholesome, nourishing cuisine that celebrates the joy of sharing food, Salma’s Canteen has limited indoor and outdoor seating, and offers perfect solutions for quick mid-week lunches, no-cook sides for casual meals at home, and sweet and savoury dinner party cheats. For special occasions, Bowden’s celebration cakes are available for pre-order.

Image credit: Salma’s Canteen