Khaled Al Khawaldeh
Mullumbimby sits about 8km from the coast, but walking into Hooked and Cooked Seafood gives one the feeling of being sat right by the seaside. The aroma of fresh wild caught seafood on the grill is as authentic as the friendly and welcoming service that you are sure to receive.
Upon my visit I had the pleasure of being served by owner and seafood enthusiast Liat Ben Yishay. Liat grew up on the Mediterranean coast where her Greek grandfather, who caught his own fish, would cook them using simple ingredients, letting the quality of the catch to do the real talking.
This family philosophy was evident in the salmon that I ordered; Immaculately grilled, with a side of crisp, fresh salad, and hot, salty fries. The salmon was seasoned to perfection, just enough to complement the taste of the catch, but not so much as to overpower it. Had I enough room in my stomach, I could have had another one right there and then. Mouthwatering!
Hooked and Cooked has been serving the Mullum community for over 20 years with a wide-ranging menu to please even the most avid seafood connoisseur. Along with the selection of fresh wild caught fish available to take home or cooked to order, patrons can also choose from an extensive menu of snacks, burgers, wraps and salads.
Keeping in line with the ethos of the area, Liat herself is an enthusiastic environmentalist and has ensured that these values are reflected in the shop. Only biodegradable packaging is used, and customers can receive discounts for bringing in their own packaging. Her fish is only wild caught to avoid the destructive techniques of fish farming that often rely heavily on antibiotics and other additives.
Hooked and Cooked is open seven days a week 11am–8pm, and open until 8.30pm on Fridays. The shop is currently accepting pre-orders for anyone looking to have a seafood inspired feast this festive season.
One day there will be no fish left in the ocean. What then?