There are parts of Botany Road in Redfern that are like a shopfront cemetery – filled with empty display windows or long-shut doors. So you instantly notice when a once-vacant space starts showing vital signs and encouraging proof of a new existence.
I came across Wild Cockatoo Bakery on the weekend, when it had been open for only “three and a half days”. It is run by a lovely gent by the name of Ray, who has been mostly based overseas; he likes baking so much that he even has a commercial oven in his garden, to make loaves for his friends.
The bread and treats at Wild Cockatoo are baked in a more conventionally located space. And its shelves feature pies, quite a few sourdough varieties, croissants studded with Belgian chocolate (all gone by the time I turned up, sadly) and a few fruit tarts (pear poached in shiraz and lemon-cured plum were the ones on offer that day). I especially liked the fragrant and sweet Apple Galette ($3.50).
Ray was surprised by the keen demand and explained that more savouries and sourdough loaves will be added to the line-up. Judging from the many people who crowded into the bakery in the short time I was there – including the older couple who cutely identified themselves as “breadies” – there will be just as many visitors keen on walking away with a bag of shelf-liberated goods.
Wild Cockatoo Bakery, 30 Botany Road, Redfern
I’ve been meaning to get myself out to Redfern to check out Bifi and Mo, Eathouse and now it looks like there is a good baery to visit too.
Good to see some life in that section of Botany Road – just a few more now….
I’m so glad there is a new bakery in this area, I was so disappointed when I moved closer to the station to realize that St Germain didn’t sell bread! This strip was in dire need of a good bakery, I really look forward to visiting them!
30 Botany Rd as in really really close to 44-54 Botany Rd? Wow!
Weird name for a bakery. The pastries look lovely, though.
Some girls from work and I spotted it last week during our lunch break! It is good for an afternoon treat. I call it the hipster bakery 🙂
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Wow I tried a sausage Roll today!
What a flavour. Too good to not go back for a pie, which I did. Yum even better. I’m gonna get fat over winter at this place. Cool Cockies I’m a fan.
I checked out the sausage rolls and pies at lunch time. Fantastic.
I don’t know which I prefer? So much flavour and the pastry is just beautiful.
Cool Cockies !!
Is there a phone number? wanted to order 1/2 dozen sausage rolls before they sold out
As a Redfern/Alexandria resident it is VERY heartening to see cool shops opening amongst the roller-doors. bring it on!
Why haven’t you reviewed my two favourite Chinese restaurants in Sydney????
1. Spice Temple in the CBD
2. Chairman Mao at Kensington
But then again, I do like it hot hot hot!! lol
Most amazingly delicious bread I have ever tasted! Amazing and so desperately needed in this area.
I am somewhat embarrassed that I spotted this place via Twitter/your blog given that I live just up the road! But so glad I did and you’re giving this place some attention because their breads & pastries are fantastic and the owners are so lovely and delightful. A very, very welcome addition to the hood!
I love this bakery. The pies are incredible. Especially the coconut vegetable one.