Freshwater locals may have noticed a new name on a familiar dining corner with the exciting opening of SeaSprout cafe and restaurant.
What was once Little Collins is now SeaSprout — a refreshed cafe offering relaxed dining by day and a casual, elevated experience by night.
Behind this transformation are husband-and-wife duo Craig and Paula Walker, who are passionate about good food, welcoming spaces, and building genuine local connections.
Taking over the venue in December last year, Craig and Paula’s vision was to create something new, but keep that same feel locals have come to love about this iconic corner spot on Lawrence Street.
“We knew we were stepping into something special,” says Craig. “But rather than simply continuing what was, we wanted to plant something new — something that reflected both this beautiful seaside location and our hopes for growth, creativity, and fresh beginnings.”
“We didn’t want to lose what made Little Collins so loved — the sense of belonging, the smiles from behind the counter,” says Craig. “We’ve kept the same friendly service, while also adding fresh energy and a personal touch.”
The new name combines the coastal spirit of Freshwater (Sea) with the idea of growth, new life, and community nourishment (Sprout). Together the name represents everything from the fresh ingredients on the menu to the new chapter they’re writing for this space.
Craig and Paula’s backgrounds aren’t in hospitality, but they tell us what they lack in restaurant experience, they make up for in passion. “This was a leap of passion for us,” says Craig. “We wanted to create a place that felt relaxed and approachable, but still delivered great food, thoughtful details, and friendly service.”
“SeaSprout isn’t just our business — it’s our way of being part of the Freshie family.”
Since taking over, the couple have invested in both the look and feel of the venue. The space has had a thoughtful refresh with new paint, improved lighting, upgraded kitchen workflows, and a focus on creating a warmer, more intimate atmosphere. Alongside these changes, they’ve also introduced a new evening dining concept, SeaSprout by Night.
From Wednesday to Sunday, the cafe transforms into a laid-back restaurant, serving small plates inspired by global flavours using local, seasonal produce. Diners can expect a rotating menu featuring dishes like turmeric roasted cauliflower with hummus, garlic prawns and chorizo, snapper with green salsa, and wagyu sirloin with house-made chips — all designed for sharing. There’s also a curated drinks list featuring local wines, classic cocktails, beers and alcohol-free drinks for everyone to enjoy.
But while there’s plenty that’s new, Craig and Paula have made it a priority to keep the feel that made Little Collins so loved. Many familiar faces remain behind the counter, and initiatives like BYO Sundays and themed events like Paella Wednesdays and Steak Night Thursdays are in the works and launching soon, bringing friends and families together to break bread without breaking the bank.
As for the breakfast and brunch line-up, SeaSprout is keeping things grounded in the classics while adding a few fresh ideas. Long-time favourites like the Breakfast Wrap, packed with avo, bacon, scrambled egg, hash brown, cheese, spinach, and tomato chutney, and the ever-popular Acai Smoothie Bowl still lead the way. While new to the menu is the Open Omelette, a flavour-packed dish with shaved ham, feta and marinated tomato. And for hungrier mornings, the SeaSprout BIG Brekkie delivers with pork and fennel sausage, bacon, eggs any way you like, roast mushrooms, hash browns, and marinated tomato on toasted sourdough — it’s a proper post-surf plate.
If you’re popping in for coffee, the counter is still stocked with glistening pastries, deletable cakes, and those delicious Butterboy cookies. Whatever time of day you drop by, the SeaSprout crew are ready to serve up fresh food and a warm welcome — whether you’re grabbing your daily brew or lingering over small plates and a glass of wine.
Keep up with SeaSprout on Instagram for the latest on themed dinners, happy hour deals, and special events.
SeaSprout
Where: Shop 3, 6-8 Lawrence St, Freshwater
Ph: 02 9938 5086
Opening Hours
Café
Mon–Fri: 6am–2pm
Sat–Sun & Public Holidays: 7am–3pm
Restaurant
Wed–Thurs: 5pm–9:30pm
Fri–Sun: 3pm–9:30pm
Website: www.seasprout.com.au
Instagram: @seasproutfreshwater
