Ard Sydney's Plant-Based Cakes Get a Permanent Home in Petersham
Take an Instagram-based cake catering and market business and turn it into a fully-fledged brick-and-mortar bakery. That's no small feat, but Christiana from Ard Sydney has done just that. You might recognize her decadent, entirely plant-based bakes from years of Pinterest-worthy posts on the 'gram, and now they're easier to get your hands on.
Christiana tells Urban List, "The space came from years of baking at home and at markets, and slowly realizing I wanted a place of my own. It felt like the right time to give the baking a permanent home." That home now lives inside an old industrial battery shop in Petersham, where an open-plan kitchen takes center stage and curbside perches invite you to settle in. It's a space that reflects Christiana's approach to baking: warm, unfussy, and deeply personal.
"The space is built around the kitchen. There is no in-seat dining, just outdoor seating and a strong connection to what is happening behind the counter," she says. "The idea was never about scale or speed, but about creating something small and intentional. A corner where people can slow down, even briefly, enjoy something sweet, and step out of the rush of the day."
That sense of intention carries through to the baking itself. Many of Christiana's techniques come from her mum, who now works alongside her, giving the whole place the feel of being welcomed into a family kitchen rather than a polished storefront. "I hope people feel comforted by the aroma when they walk in. That they take a moment to chat, ask questions, and enjoy the space," Christiana says.
As for what to order, Christiana finds it hard to choose, but admits the baklava layer cake is the one that really lets her get creative. "Also, the pistachio olive oil and funfetti cake—nicknamed the gayke." Beyond the cakes, there are playful takes on classic buns, plus a thoughtful drinks list. Her pick: the salted tahini caramel cold brew. Matcha lovers are also well looked after, with iced maple or plum and pistachio matcha among the standouts.
At its core, Ard is about making something beautiful and sharing it with the neighborhood. In Christiana's words: "sweet treats, sunlight, conversation, and permitting yourself to slow down, even if it is just for a few minutes." Ard Sydney will officially open on the 28th of January.
Image credit: Ard Sydney | Instagram
