The fact that the name of Cuckoo Callay is inspired by a poem from Alice Through the Looking Glass is illustrative of the playful nature of the place. The decor is reflective of the theme, with a pink flamingo on the menu and a phrase from the book spelled out in neon on the staircase.
On a Saturday early afternoon it’s full of hipsters, but where in the eastern suburbs isn’t?
The staff were very cheerful and friendly. I was given water along with the menu as soon as I sat down. There was only a short wait for my food and as soon as I’d finished I was asked whether there was anything else they could bring me.
Although it’s an all day menu, most of the meals are more breakfast orientated. The Gorgeous Jorge – sourdough toast topped with avocado, tomato, goat’s fetta, dukkah and a poached egg sounded great, but a little too much like the breakfast I’d had earlier in the day, so instead went for the Sideways Shuffle – Blue swimmer crab cake with corn & avocado salsa, watermelon, cucumber & lemon jelly and poached egg.
When it arrived the presentation was so amazing, I was almost hesitant to ruin it by eating it. But glad I did as I really enjoyed the dish. There was plenty of crab in the cake and the watermelon added a fresh light touch to balance out the dish. I wasn’t quite sure how well watermelon and egg would go together, but it just seemed to work. The egg could probably have been cooked a little bit more as the white was a little runny in places but this was a minor point.
The takeaway coffee I had was also great and served with a big smile and a joke.
I’ll definitely be back earlier in the day to try the Gorgeous Jorge.
Cuckoo Callay
413-415 Crown Street Surry Hills
Mon-Fri: 7am – 4pm Sat: 8am – 4pm Sun: 8am – 3pm