An impromptu birthday lunch together with one of my colleagues, Thi. (Thank you again, lovely!) I had never been a “Let’s go out for lunch today!” sort of colleague but this had been one of my most enjoyable lunch dates, it’s nice getting to know a little bit more about your work mate!

We settled for Cuckoo Callay on Crown St, Surry Hills

I’ve never tasted anything Moroccan that’s bad. So this pulled lamb croquette and its labnah (yoghurt cream cheese) excited me beyond words.

The croquette was perfectly cooked, crunchy out – warm, crumbly and well seasoned inside, the quinoa and veggies salad a really good match of flavours and texture, the creamy and spicy horseradish cream cheese yoghurt makes the whole ensemble sing a harmonious melody. YUM.

I love fusion food, and when you have unusually matched elements such as charcoal and kimchi, you’ve got my attention!

First of all, charcoal sourdough….earthy, slight burn (not texture) yet pleasant taste that’s classic of anything charcoal these days. Modern, playful, not over complicated.

Kimchi and cheese combo was delicious, that spicy, sour, cheesy melded well together. The soft scrambled eggs was like the glue that held everyone together. And the fried goats feta cheese, atop everything else, was an absolute BOMB in my mouth. Eating it gave me a feeling similar to cutting into soft boiled egg where the yolk is golden, runny and gorgeous. So good, I decided to eat it in bits, to save the best for last. It was f***** awesome to the last bite….

I’m not much of a coffee drinker, so when I had ordered the martini, it had surprised Thi, and myself – but I’m always game to try new things!

And boy was I glad that I ordered it! I became a convert that day on and Espresso Martini would be one of my fav cocktails YAY! I love liking new things!!

Definitely coming back to Cuckoo Callay to try other stuff on their menu!