Tomorrow’s brunch: Rebel Rebel

As a European, any new eatery that offers a selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes triggers my attention and curiosity. Rebel Rebel is a new CBD café with a fusion of Spanish, Sicilian and French cuisine. Together with dish digital editor, Isabeau Brimeau, I tried out their tapas-style menu.

Rebel Rebel is located in Fanshawe Street, where Rockefeller used to reside. The venue is spacious and greets you with a beautiful, natural light – all the things that I adore when it comes to interiors.

Olga, the café owner, warmly welcomed us and offered a run-down of the tapas-style Mediterranean menu, and the different flavours offered.

First up was Salmon Gravalax with Zested Herb Mayo and Rye Bread. It was light and comprised of high-quality ingredients. The salmon was followed by the Raw Broccoli Caesar Salad, which was crunchy and fresh. A warning to vegetarians – despite being in the vegetables section, the sauce is still made with anchovies. 

Our favourite plates were the Parmesan and Mushroom Spanish Croquetas with truffle oil – crunchy on the outside and soft inside. They were moreish and hard to share. The Breakfast Sliders with Bacon and Scrambled Egg were hearty and satisfying, with perfectly-crisp bacon and soft, buttery brioche.

We also tried the Swedish Meatballs doused with cheese. Cooked until tender, and served with crostini, it was another delightful morsel.

After a bit of temptation, we managed to find space for the Apple and Rhubarb Crumble. Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was a lovely combination of flavours. However, much to our surprise, it was served cold. It would have been much more pleasurable had it been hot. After a few spoonfuls of cold ice cream and cold crumble, we decided perhaps it was not for us.

Rebel Rebel uses fresh, seasonal and high-quality products and is perfect for a work breakfast or lunch. If you don't have time for a dine-in situation – never fear they also have a wide range of pastries and freshly-made baguette sandwiches for eating on-the-go.

Rebel Rebel
104 Fanshawe St and 29 Graham St
Lower Ground