My pal works near Taylor Square so we’re slowly working outwards from there for our occasional lunch dates. I’ve always found Cafe Organism charming in terms of its outlook, a tall narrow terrace house, and somewhat steep stairs. I’m also charmed that it’s Japanese-run, as I’ve always had a fondness for all things Japan.
I wasn’t so hungry so wanted something small and tasty. The Tofu L’Ancienne Roll ($8) was perfect: crumbed fried tofu, oak lettuce, cucumber and homemade teriyaki sauce. I thought that the tofu was a lovely match for the ciabatta, and it was exactly what I wanted: something simple, tasty and nourishing.
My friend had the tofu and lotus root salad (with tofu, lotus root, beetroot, mesclun, medley tomato, pine nut and black sesame dressing) ($16). But they ran out of lotus root so provided it with small bits of sweet potato. He said it would have been better with lotus root, and though it looked pretty enough, didn’t really impress.
Still, I liked the vibe, and will be back, although that’s what I said last time I was here, and it took me 2.5 years…
(My review of 31 October 2015 said:
Yesterday’s large latte (four bucks, standard for Surry Hills) came with the figure of… well, what do you think? Sock puppet? Lizard? Snake? Or… don’t go there. I finally figured it out as I was leaving the cafe… It was an organism! Cute place though, and cute outlook, perched high above Crown Street in a narrow terrace house. I’ll have to give the food a shot sometime.
Zomato tells me the review was seen 12,038 times. These numbers always impress me, though I don’t really know if it’s true or not.)