With agencies and media companies back in the office in force this year, Mediaweek Birdman in the Bistro columnist, and legendary Sydney diner and MFA Hall of Famer (we want to keep saying this and congratulations!), Greg Graham updates the Mediaweek audience with establishments that should be on their lunch list. There’s something for all budgets too.
Birdman in the Bistro: On the Corporate Expense account for a VIP client
The Charles Grand Brasserie – CBD
WOW, it is grand, and so is the food and service. Another brilliant addition to excellent new French brasseries in Sydney. By the team behind Lou Lou in Lavender Bay, this is a very special place. I had a great Schnitzel a la Viennese with good sides.
The dish you must try: Carved at the table the black opal wagyu rump is sensational.
Vegetarians look away now
RAFI – North Sydney
North Sydney is having a dining moment, a cool alfresco area, and stylish indoor seating this place ticks all the boxes in the best possible way. I really enjoyed the grilled king prawns with chili miso butter and other delicious sides.
The dish you must try: Roast chicken with spring onions & broad beans -so moist and yummy.
Birdman in the Bistro: Fun team lunch
Porkfat – Chinatown
A great new fun Thai place that delivers authentic food served with love, just like you stepped into the chef’s grandmother’s kitchen. Really enjoyed the tamarind wings with fish sauce, crispy garlic, and coriander. I will be back for sure.
The dish you must try: Baked tiger prawns with vermicelli noodles, porkfat, sesame oil, oyster sauce, ginger, Chinese wine, and Chinese celery.
Porkfat
Woo Woi – Chippendale
A great fusion of Korean BBQ and the art of Wagyu Omakase. The finest Wagyu beef grilled over the charcoal flames was really fresh and delicious. We ordered the BBQ set and it was a feast with vegetables, salad, rice & kimchi
The dish you must try: Definitely the Wagyu beef BBQ set.
Birdman in the Bistro: Brekkie Favourites
Blackwood – Bondi
A funky café with sunny outdoor seating what a great way to start the day for brekkie or brunch. A wonderful selection of poke bowls plus a standout out Schnitty, however the Moreton Bay bug roll was a highlight.
Concrete Jungle – Chippendale
Great coffee and fresh juices with some brekkie classics and favourites. For me, the go-to dish is the blueberry and lemon ricotta hotcakes. They are to die for and insta worthy, almost too pretty to eat.
Birdman in the Bistro: Cheap & cheerful lunch with the crew & I’m paying for myself
The Palace Chinese – CBD
The lunchtime yum cha is hard to beat with an extensive selection of delicious dumplings and your favourite Chinese dishes. It is fast and fun with delicious food that keeps people coming back year after year. Plus, the pink mini gelatine pigs for dessert are a bonus.
A selection from Walsh Bay Crabhouse
Walsh Bay Crab House – Millers Point
What a treat with fresh seafood and friendly service that makes you feel at home. From award-winning Harry’s Singapore Chilli crab with incredible quality live seafood. The locals love it and it is also perfect for a quick pre-theatre dining experience. My personal favourite is the lobster mornay and the delicious homemade prawn cutlets.
Pick of the Day: The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar – the black opal wagyu rump was outstanding and the carving at the table elevates the experience.