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
Tags: bakery, Redfern, Wild Cockatoo Bakery
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 🙂
This comment has been removed by the author.
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.