My first dinner in Sydney, and Australia for that matter, was at Quay. While doing research, I was coming across a lot of mixed info. Many said Quay was losing its touch. A group of ladies I met while dining at Jewel Bako in New York suggest I skip it. I’m glad I went. I obviously do not know what it was like before, but if it was even better than this, then wow!
Upon arrival our table was not ready so we were shown to the balcony and ordered drinks. The view is of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
After a few minutes, we were shown to our table. Although it was not “front row”, I liked it because I could see the Harbour Bridge to my left, and the Opera House to my right (lit up green for St. Patrick’s day).
You are offered either a 6 or 10 course tasting menu. We went with the 6.
The amuse was a Shitake and pork crackling tart. It was good, but not mind blowing.
Next, hand harvested seafood with soy, seaweed and vinegar. It was divine. The seafood was probably one of the freshest I have experienced.
After the seafood, came eel cream. The flavor WAS mind blowing. Very delicate, nice texture. I thoroughly enjoyed this. The server explained that they added green Australian walnuts which are only available 2 weeks in a year. What I noticed about my meals in Australia was the focus on local ingredients. Perhaps because of the far distance of the country from everywhere else, they rightly focus on what they can obtain “locally” (Australia is a big country), and it pays off in the food which is delicious.
Next, Poolish crumpets with smoked roe. This was like a caviar service. The crumpet was like a huge blini. Although this dish was very good, I felt that they could be more generous with the roe, and the crumpet, on the other hand, was a bit too much, and slightly dense.
The next dish was Mud crab custard. Very good and I could taste the sweet freshness of the crab.
For “main dish”, on the 6 course menu, you have to choose between pork or duck. I had the pork.
For dessert, I had the White coral. This dish was inconsistent. Some were still smoking while others were not. Mine was not.
We were given some petite fours to finish the meal.
Overall, I was very happy with this meal. The setting, the food, and the service were all outstanding. I would return. 9/10
thanks for sharing!