01/03/08

South of Market meets Southern Hemisphere at this wine bar and restaurant showcasing the fresh flavors from Down Under.

by Contributor

The Scene
An unassuming facade leads into a lively scene buzzing with conversation. The energetic crowd overflows outside where they sip Australian vintages while waiting for a sought-after seat in the cozy space. The decor is elegantly modern: Simply appointed tables are bathed in a warm glow from large lattice-look light fixtures; an eight-seat bar is equipped with mod white-plastic stools; and a low-sitting communal table divides the room.

The Food
The bushman's plate is the Australian answer to antipasto-sliced cured meats, velvety hummus, olives, grilled veggies and crunchy fried mussels. Paired with a grilled-corn and apple salad flecked with peppery greens and dressed with creamy feta cheese, it's hard to miss. Entrees include an unbelievably tender Australian beef fillet with subtly truffled-verjus, salsify, and greens, and barramundi (an Australian white fish), pan-roasted until the skin is crisp and served with a lightly-charred half lime for squeezing. The frozen licorice parfait surrounded by a moat of lime syrup is a must-try dessert.

Hits: The stellar service manages to be friendly and attentive despite the raucous crowd.
Misses: There's sometimes a bit of a wait for a table even with reservations--often tempered by the gracious hostess righting it with a little bubbly.

12/21/07

Different food done very well

by traunza

My foodie friend and I visited South tonight. We were seated promptly for our 7pm reservation (a Thursday night), and by the time we left at 9, the place was packed. We figured out pretty quickly that this place is big on wine, as we were asked about having a glass at least twice before we even looked at the menu. We did finally order some, and my friend's red was really NOT GOOD. However they promptly replaced it with a much better version. My white wasn't that great either--next time I'll choose something else. For appetizers he had the crab omelet, which had great flavor but could have been served at a warmer temperature. I had the arugula salad, which was very good. We were both very happy with our entrees--he had the barramundi and I had the mushroom pie. The mushroom pie was very unique, with great look, smell and taste. It was very rich so I couldn't finish it all--my mouth is watering just thinking about having it for lunch tomorrow. For dessert he had the licorice and lime parfait. I was sceptical as to how those two flavors would combine, but my friend told me to have faith. I did, and he was right. This is the chef's signature dessert, and it was fabulous. (Note--the people at the next table over also had this dessert. The woman, not a licorice fan, didn't much like it. The man polished it off, however). We also had the rice pudding, which too was very tasty. I am putting this restaurant at the top of my list for a repeat visit, and to take my other foodie friends.

• Pros: Unique dishes and flavor combinations
• Cons: Waiters are pushy on the wine

11/06/07

Great vibe and cozy ambiance

by akirokurosawa

Warm and inviting interior. Loved the barrumundi fish entree. Delicate on the palate with a crunchy spice crust topped with grilled fresh lime...lovely! The prawn appetizer was sub-par for a restaurant like this. It tasted like it was soaked in water before it was grilled and then topped with a bland mango salsa that didn't reach any height. The filet of beef was very good though and the accompanying greens and fresh shaved parmesan was a perfect touch to complete the meal. Service was a bit slow but all were friendly and pleasant. I would rate it 3.75 out of 4.