What do you get when you take a beekeeping nutritionist, a globetrotting coffee aficionado with a penchant for spy craft and the consummate hostess – and put them together in Flinders University’s former Alere Café site?

Wildernest is a vibrant addition to our Bedford Park campus, offering a unique dining experience. With a focus on fresh, delicious and healthy food, Wildernest is set to become a great new spot for staff, students and visitors alike.

Meet the team

With a wealth of experience in hospitality, retail and entertaining, the team has a deep understanding of the need for a relaxing and welcoming space… a ‘nest’ overlooking the wilderness of Flinders. “We are excited to welcome people to come up to Wildernest and share our love of good food.  We want people to come here to relax and step into our world,” said Ali.

Ali brings a passion for food, wine and people to the table. “Celebrations and entertaining make me happy. They are a big part of my life,” she said. “I find happiness in bringing people together through food.”

Ali studied Behavioural Science at Flinders and was thrilled to have the opportunity to come back to campus in this new venture.

Anya emphasizes the importance of having a warm, welcoming atmosphere at Wildernest with a great team. “We all manage our areas and jump in to help each other whenever needed,” she said. “We come from diverse backgrounds, but share a common love for feeding people and seeing people react with joy to the first taste of our food”.

Xarchaeceya is dedicated to creating both healthy and delicious food. “I strive to bridge the gap between healthy eating and great taste,” she said. “I think it’s a tricky balance to get right – and that’s which makes our food offerings unique. From my experience as a Flinders student studying Nutrition, salads were a big thing that I wanted to see more of. Salads that you actually want to eat – because they’re not just leaves, you know! We use seasonal and home-grown and seasonal ingredients, including produce from our own home gardens.”

Some menu highlights include:

• Wildernest bowl: You can try up to three of the four salads on the menu at once along with your choice of slow cooked meats or tofu if you’re feeling particularly ravenous.
• The Whole Club Sandwich: Homage to classic New York diner fare, the Club features layers of different flavours and textures between three slices of parmesan and thyme encrusted toasted white bread. This is a club everyone is welcome to join.
• A range of toastie toasties on house-made focaccia (available all day), as well as Xarchaeceya’s signature pancakes and granola.

Expect the menu to evolve with new items each season. The catering menu will be available soon.

For catering and enquiries, call 0426 035 850 or email wildernest@flinders.edu.au. To book a table, click here.

Wildernest is open just in time for Orientation, for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks.

Opening hours

Monday to Friday, 8am to 2pm. Breakfast from 8am, lunch and snacks from 11am.

Location 

Student Hub, level 2

Book at wildernest@flinders.edu.au or phone 0426 035 850.