Tongue and Groove Canberra

LOCATION
In Civic, situated in the Tax Office.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Tongue and Groove has been open for only a matter of weeks, yet it already has heads turning and tongues wagging (and perhaps grooving). Regularly packed out, Tongue and Groove is easily identifiable by the large groups of satisfied customers spilling onto the street after lunch or after work. The most striking feature of Tongue and Groove, apart from the trend-setting diners, is the uniquely designed interior. From the massive supporting struts of polished concrete to the neo-classical mural (painted by a local talent), the design at Tongue and Groove really works. Utilising Persian rugs, warm wooden panelling and hydraulic drop-lights that lower at dusk, the feel inside is one of cosy intimacy. Although consistently popular, it is surprisingly quiet, considering the post-modern brutalism of the raw concrete walls and floors.

So, if you can get yourself a table, rest assured that you’ll be able to hear yourself think. If you’re lacking said table, then head over to one of the many plush lounge settings and sample some of the liquid refreshments on offer. The delicious house speciality – the lime and chilli martini – is always a good start. The menu is designed around substantial nibbles suitable for a night out with friends, or a spot of something before the theatre. For sharing, try the deliciously crispy whitebait with garlic mayonnaise, or the T&G sliders – three miniature burgers that are almost too cute to eat. For those who can’t bring themselves to share, try the beef and lamb pot pie – a delicately spiced stewed pie served with fries for good measure. To finish it all off, Tongue and Groove has the perfect (patent-pending) dessert: the Pizooki™ – a pizza of cookie dough, covered in chocolate and ice cream!

Russell Buzby, March 2009