FCBA x Kelby's Cafe, Marrickville, NSW

It's funny to think about how long we've been doing this food blogging business as a hobby. Contrary to how I initially thought it would play out, it's actually gone rather smoothly. Maybe it's a combination of our frequency, tenacity and the fact that my writing got better and more personal but I feel as though it's going a whole lot better than my previous attempts at maintaining this hobby. How "well" something is going (especially something like a hobby) is hardly quantifiable...that said, I'd make the argument that we're doing pretty well! We've been invited to events and we've met so many like minded people so if you want to say that we're successful as food bloggers? Yea, I think we're doing alright.

So, last weekend, we were invited to attended a small gathering as a part of Food Critics and Bloggers Association (FCBA) where we went to Kelby's Cafe for a delightful food sampling. We've been members of the FCBA since we were recommended to join by Drool Worthy World but we've never really attended any events partly because we haven't been entirely available but also because we didn't really know how to RSVP whilst securing out spots. Fortunately, we got on it right away as soon as we got the invite and before we knew it, we were sitting down at Kelby's cafe with Sophia @ FCBA, Wonggreg and Aroundtheclockfoodie.

The general feel of the cafe reminded us of a friendly, neighbourhood eatery where everyone knows each other. Comfortable, cosy and homey...initial impressions wise, it's not a place you would expect to see inventive and inspired dishes but we were pleasantly surprised! Looking past the standard menu, you will notice many specials plastered onto the blackboard covered walls. As explained by our lovely host, the dishes are inspired by his Lebanese upbringing and he wanted to bring a bit of exoticism into his dishes which is what differentiates Kelby's from the rest.

The five of us decided to start with a few drinks. The Mrs was the standout by ordering the chai tea which quickly caught momentum with our other dining guests. I stuck quietly with my usual coffee but I did note that the cups and saucers were very, very attractive. Each had a different and very detailed African animal patterned onto it. When it came time to order food, we unanimously decided to order five items from the specials menu to share.

All five items came at the same time so we'll go through each dish one-by -one. The first special, the chilli eggs consisted of chilli scrambled eggs, grilled haloumi, avocado and pita bread. In my opinion, this would be the dish that most people would be used to. Imagine a mixed breakfast with toast replaced with soft, toasted pita bread served with buttery, flavoursome scrambled eggs, avocado and a really refreshing, spicy sauce. In summary, a much better version of what you would normally be able to eat for breakfast...most definitely a favourite of mine.

The Kelby's Hash had to be one of my other favourites of the day. I reckon this was the most luxurious and decadent dish as it contained wilted spinach, sujuk, crispy roast potatoes, haloumi, caramelised leek all topped off with two poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. If you're a hungry, hungry man (like me) this will definitely be the dish to order as you will be so satisfied after! Such a substantial and delicious meal!

The crowd favourite had to be the Autumn Delight which were poached eggs over toast with avocado, tahini yoghurt dressing, a grilled tomato and balsamic glaze. With this dish, you get to enjoy a nicely toasted piece of sourdough bread that's slathered with a mix of fresh, buttery smashed avocado and dressed with this creamy, tart yet savoury yoghurt dressing. The tartness is balanced by the sweetness of the balsamic glaze and then you get the runny poached egg on top and the sweet grilled tomato as well. Simply sensational!

If you're looking at a less substantial light lunch, the next dish is the one for you! The Not Too Naughty omelette was the lightest of the five dishes we ordered. A fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside omelette containing diced potatoes, sage and feta cheese...the dish is perfect for someone who wants a richly flavoured dish that won't sit heavy on their stomach.

Finally, the Green Eggs would be the perfect pick for pescatarian friends. Pesto infused scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, asparagus and fried capers. This would probably be (in my opinion) the most savoury dish of the bunch since the briny and salty fried capers works really well in accentuating the flavours of the whole dish. The buttery eggs and smoked salmon slices meld really well together and the toast helps carry all of that into your mouth.

Overall, the Mrs and I had an absolutely lovely time at Kelby's cafe. Not only is their hospitality absolutely amazing, their passion for fine food really comes through in all the dishes they produce. Thank you Kelby's for treating us to such a lovely brunch session and thank you to FCBA for providing us the opportunity to dine with you. We hope to have the opportunity to attend the next event and the next event after that.