LOCATIONNelsons Bay is a two hour drive from Sydney, in the beautiful area of Port Stephens. 30 minutes north of Newcastle.
DETAILSRitual Restaurant's cuisine is created from innovative techniques that have their basis in classical training. Each creation has a balance of tastes and textures that stimulate the senses and promote excitement and wonder.
REVIEW BY SALLY HAMMOND“I am the scientist and Carl is the chef,” says Kelie Kenzler, from perhaps NSW’s most ground-breaking restaurant.These brave and talented people, who describe their cuisine as ‘avant-garde’, are pioneering culinary boundaries in the style of molecular gastronomy experts such as Spain’s Ferran Adrià and the UK’s Heston Blumenthal.
Be aware that this is no ordinary food, so come with an open mind, prepared for textures, flavours and delivery you could never have anticipated. The ten-plus course ‘tasting journey’ will take your tastebuds where they have never before ventured.Relying on matching mainly organic and biodynamic (and often local) produce according to its chemical composition – often employing unusual combinations – without exception the result is mind-blowing but delightful. Chef Kenzler’s experience on the Sunshine Coast and his wife’s science degree makes this a unique partnership. Despite the menu, perhaps the most surprising thing of all is that this place is tucked away in a très-ordinary suburban shopping strip a little away from Nelson Bay’s main drag. Dine here soon as the space is limited and by dinner any night is by reservation only. As Winner of Best New Restaurant, 2008 (Newcastle & Surrounds) Ritual Restaurant is beginning to get a lot of attention and, who knows, El Bulli-like waiting lists could be ahead.
Average cost of main course: $85 for a 10+ course Tasting Journey, $115 with matched wines (tasting glasses) Dinner by reservation, any evening.