It’s official, French Toast just got even more flamboyant. Cuckoo Callay from within ESCA Group has revealed a limited-edition rainbow serve of French Toast to celebrate love in all its unique and sugary shapes and forms. Serving up a whole lot of pride over the coming weeks, let Cuckoo Callay’s crazy new dishes be a precursor for the annual 2022 Mardi Gras parade very much on the horizon.

Adding to the already impossible selection of brunch options, a decadent Rainbow French Toast in the name of Je M’Appelle Kaya has been whipped up for your eating pleasure. Equal parts drool worthy and Insta-worthy, this dish is made up of crunchy nut coated ube halaya French toast, with kaya and ube halaya jam, lemon curd, coconut and lime crumble, topped with rainbow meringue for lasting sweetness. For those who sit on the other side of the sweet versus savoury fence, Cuckoo Callay introduce Shrimp Po’Boy, an authentic New Orleans style sandwich on a hoagie roll that comes stuffed with crispy polenta fried shrimp, cheese, red onion, horseradish remoulade, pickles, lettuce, and a side of salt and vinegar chips. A humble nod to the birthplace of Mardi Gras and its US heritage stemming back to 1837.

If all that delicious eating has you working up a thirst, Cuckoo Callay also introduce Watermelon and Cucumber sangria jugs on their limited-edition love menu. One to share with your fellow brunch goers, this fruity concoction includes sauvignon blanc, watermelon, cucumber, lime, honey, and fresh mint.

Cuckoo For Love is taking over the Surry Hills and Newtown outposts for three full weeks, drenching the already quirky eateries in rainbow accessories – flags, limited edition rainbow coffee cups, and a change of logo across social during this gorgeously gay period. Executive Chef, Ollie Hughes, has succeeded in jazzing up the cafe menu for their joyous customers with the two sparkling new additions mentioned above.

“We always like to do things a little differently here at Cuckoo Callay, and Mardi Gras season proves no exception. Not only is this an opportunity for me to think outside the box and deliver interesting flavour combos for new and loyal customers, we’re always trying to instil that sense of community and connect with Sydney in a really fun yet meaningful way”, says Cuckoo Callay Executive Chef, Ollie Hughes.

Continuing to be a strong ally for surrounding LGBTQIA+ communities, Cuckoo Callay has announced that $2 from each new menu item sold is being donated to ACON – a fierce organisation that supports LGBTQIA+ people statewide. All funds raised will go towards vital ACON programs and services that improve and protect the health and inclusion of LGBTQIA+ communities and gender diverse individuals throughout NSW.

Rounding out the rather rambunctious three week takeover, Cuckoo For Love closes with a Mardi Gras pre-party on Saturday 5th March in Surry Hills with a dedicated DJ ready to spin the queerest and most colourful tunes imaginable. Take a seat, keep sipping those cocktails, and soak up the sunshine from your favourite friendly neighbourhood cafe.

Where is the love? Why, Cuckoo Callay has bottled it all. Starting Saturday, February 12, right through to Sunday, March 6, head to the Surry Hills or Newtown cafes to indulge in the festivities and show your support for the LGBTQIA+ community. All new menu items are available for $22 in support on Mardi Gras 2022.

Cuckoo Calley
413-415 Crown Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010
P: 02 8399 3679
Mon–Fri: 7.30am – 3.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm

BC1 Newtown Train Station, Newtown, NSW 2042
P: 02 9557 7006
Mon–Fri: 5.30am – 2.30pm
Sat & Sun: 7am – 3pm