Recently I’ve been to two new (well, new for me since moving back to Sydney) restaurants that do have an inkling of the Melbourne charm I do miss. They are District Dining in Surry Hills and Gastro Park in Potts Point.
They have a similar feel and atmosphere – cool and sophisticated but relaxed enough so you can have a loud laugh and one too many drinks (although I’m sure they both do practice responsible service of alcohol) without feeling like the naughtiest girl in the class.
Our table of 7 shared all the dishes – some are designed as share plates, others are mains we shared anyway … we are that kind of family…no-one wants to miss out! We did have to order quite a few dishes to satisfy our healthy appetites although none were a disappointment. Special mentions go to the chicken wings and the roasted lamb dish although these are no longer on the menu as it changes regularly, which I like. Keeps it fresh and exciting!
Gastro Park also changes its menu according to what’s in season. M and I shared a dozen natural oysters (very fresh), scallops with carrot butter – they come seared but we asked for them to be cooked right through which they happily obliged – and the Crispy scaled snapper, smoked potato puree, calamari crackling, ink sauce; washed down with some Grey Goose.
All dishes at both venues were done very well. The warm atmospheres and endearing staff were helpful and attentive but not as though they were also dining with you.
Highly recommend both places but do book – they can get very busy, especially this time of year.
As usual, all the food was devoured before I remembered to take any photos… which is why I’ll never be of the food blogging ilk! Have included some pics below from the websites of these venues.
Enjoy!
District Dining: 17 Randle Street, Surry HillsSydney, NSW 2010. p: (02) 9211 7798 Gastro Park: 5-9 Roslyn Street . Kings Cross Sydney 2011 . NSW . Australia . p: 02 8068 1017
The Value-Add 