Ever found yourself deciding on a venue for a Sydney meal and being forced to compromise between an amazing food menu or a fabulous wine list. Well in the words of the Old El Paso taco girl, “Why don’t we have both?”
That’s right, settle no more friends! Here are my favourite spots to wine and dine where the beverages and the food are equally important.
Tucked away in Double Bay, given the name you’re not wrong to assume the wine list here is killer. Place your trust in Head Sommelier Louella Mathews, previously of Rockpool, and you will be rewarded with unique drops from a variety of regions and climates. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, ask about the special museum releases. It might be called a wine bar but ex-Guillaume chef Jose Silva’s menu does not disappoint. You can’t go there and not order the steak tartare or smoked mackeral pate. And saving room for his famous sweet Belem Portugese tarts is a non-negotiable.
This Italian gem in the back streets of Paddington is perfect date night material. The whipped bottarga with pretzel is life-changing. Trust me, you’ll seriously consider ordering another. And you can’t go wrong with any of the handmade pasta. On the drinks front, the regularly changing list is full of gems and the friendly team offer great recommendations. Their Aperol Spritz also takes the crown for the best I’ve had outside of Italy.
Sometimes in Sydney, a view translates into a dud dining experience but not at the so-hot-right-now Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. Play tourist and jump on a ferry from Circular Quay and nab yourself an outdoor spot with a view. Kick off with cocktails – Frose or a carafe of sangria gets my vote – then order up from the menu with something for everyone making it perfect for a group. For something light and fresh you can’t beat their sashimi tasting plate or range of salads but the beer battered fish and chips, half-free range chicken or sirloin on the bone are the go for the hungrier amongst your squad.
4. Mercado
The CBD restaurant and bar scene is as strong as ever and Mercado is a firm crown favourite. Located in Angel Place, start your evening with a spot at the bar – the cocktails are on point – then move to a table and settle in to enjoy the delicacies of Chef Nathan Sasi, previously of another Sydney favourite Nomad. This is food best shared and settling in with parfait, haloumi fig and honey and a selection of cold cuts cured in house is dining heaven. Make sure you order the Turkish pumpkin ravioli with yoghurt and burnt butter too – it was so good my friends and I took one bite, looked at each other and immediately ordered another.
5. Bennelong
When something a little fancy is in order, it’s hard to beat dinner at the Opera House. The restaurant space at Bennelong is great but personally I love the slightly more laidback and personal vibe at the Cured and Cultured Counter where you can watch the chefs at work. Start with a glass of Tasmanian sparkling and enjoy the famous red claw yabbies with lemon jam, cultured cream and pikelets (trust me, it works) and the fanciest sausage roll you’ll have in your life, suckling pig and black garlic sauce style. The view isn’t too shabby either, perfect for a nightcap.
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