From industry to trendy

Enticed by rave recommendations, decides to check out the trendy cafes and shops in a former coal mining area of New South Wales

My amazing iced coffee.

Without wasting any more time, I leave my bags with the concierge for a short drive to Newcastle’s “Eat Street”.

After spending some time driving around Cooks Hill, it dawns on me that this locale, filled with more than 25 restaurants and cafes, is best explored on foot.

Lucky to find an empty spot in an alley nearby and even luckier to discover that the walls surrounding the car park are smothered with spray-painted art murals. I stand rooted, captivated by the vibrant colours while at the same time trying to decipher the stories hidden behind the collage of images and ideas.

Then, no longer able to ignore the incessant growls of my innards, I decide to search for sustenance.

There are all sorts of culinary temptations, ranging from Japanese to Italian, Chinese, pastry and chocolate, kebabs, top-of-the-range coffee from every imaginable corner of the world and just about everything else in between!

Overwhelmed by the choices, I eventually opt for a place called Black Sheep.

I must admit that it’s the unusual name that piques my interest. After all,

This Italian sausage dish is absolutely fabulous.

I can’t imagine anyone wanting to name their establishment after a disfavoured or disreputable member of a group. Feeling slightly amused, I step inside only to find that nearly all the tables are occupied.

CHARMING EATERY

Fortunately, a helpful waitress manages to locate an empty table halfway to the back of the cafe. The interesting brunch menu soon makes up for my disappointment for not getting a seat by the window. Apart from separating the breakfast and lunch items, the single page listing also has a section for kids aptly called Little Lambs!

Fifteen minutes passes quickly enough

but I’m unable to select my order. Realising my predicament, the same girl comes by and whispers: “Perhaps that will help,” while pointing to a small piece of paper held up by a card stand right in front of me.

Red-faced, I sheepishly reach for the palm-sized parchment while at the same time kicking myself for not noticing it earlier.

The Black Sheep Specials immediately strikes a chord. Despite being limited to only three choices, they all look very tempting. I quickly settle for the Italian sausages served with goat’s cheese and onion jam.

My choice gets the stamp of approval from the helpful waitress who generously