LOCATION
Bourke Street, Surry Hills, close to Oxford Street, 5 minutes from the CBD.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
To say that Emmilou is a restaurant and bar reminiscent of Spain (with hints of Europe) with great tapas, inventive cocktails, good wine and a fun atmosphere is just not enough. The restaurant does indeed have a brilliant menu of Spanish-style tapas created by chef and owner Chris Cranswick-Smith, but it goes further that that – it is fiery, boldly embracing and has a liberty that speaks of the essence of Spain itself. It is equally deceptive to say that Emmilou displays French tones in its cuisine and music if you don’t also mention its independent spirit and infectious passion. These are the qualities that give it heart and soul – two things which are often missing from “chic” city spots.
However to call it entirely European would be misleading as well. To its European fusion Emmilou adds an Australian laid-back attitude. It understands lazy Saturdays, a chatty night with friends and Sydney’s dire need for good food and wine after 10pm. It blends this knowledge in a selection of tapas that are available until 1am and include choices like spicy rice, with braised ham hock and clams, and stuffed zucchini flowers with sheep’s milk fetta and truffle honey. To this it also adds a broad wine selection and tongue-in-cheek cocktail menu with fun categories like “crowd pleasers” and “for the bon vivants, bar keeps and booze hounds”. And which self-respecting booze hound could complain about a “Palm Beach Special” (a short, sharp combination of desirable fluids)? However, connoisseurs will be pleased to know that Emmilou also does a tapas degustation menu – six tapas paired with matching cocktails or wine. In truth, the best way to describe Emmilou is as an experience rather than a restaurant. It isn’t for everyone – if you like quiet, civilised evenings in a still environment you’ll probably feel a little overwhelmed by the boisterous French tunes that strut around the place, and its sultry, dim, red tones. But if you like a bit of punch you’ll have a mighty good time.
Agnes Gajewska, September 2009
DETAILS
Emmilou is a unique Sydney (but more European in ambience) cocktail bar and restaurant and has earned a reputation for exceptional tapas and cocktails, wonderful music and a distinctly warm inviting atmosphere. With a passion forged by five years in some of Spain’s leading kitchens, owner Chris Cranswick-Smith has crafted an authentic menu of modern Spanish tapas that combine international expertise with fresh, local produce. At Emmilou you can expect a unique menu ranging from modern Australian and European in the early evening to French and Spanish-influenced tapas in the late hours. Stop by for a couple of relaxed drinks or settle in for the perfect culinary experience. Dining is available until the civilized hour of 1am.
SPECIAL EVENINGS Special nights-
Monday to Saturday - half price cocktails from 5-7pm. Sangria Thursdays - ($15 sangria jugs all night)
Cocktail Courses
EMMILOU'S COCKTAIL COURSE
An introduction to the art of mixology
Emmilou’s 2 hour cocktail course is a must for those that love making and drinking cocktails. During a fun and interactive session with our own Master Mixologist, you’ll be introduced to the history of the cocktail before stepping behind the bar to learn the tricks of the trade. Not only will you learn a few of Emmilou’s most popular recipes, you’ll also grasp the art of balancing drinks and designing your own cocktail creations. And after making the delicious cocktails, the real work starts – after all, drinks this good shouldn’t go to waste!
Open Course $50p/p- 2 cocktails: Wednesday nights from 6-7pm
Private Courses $60p/p- 3cocktails: Perfect for office parties, sophisticated bucks and hens celebrations or any special occasion, private courses can be tailored to groups of up to 30 budding mixologists, between 3-5pm.
FUNCTIONS
Whether a large dinner celebration or an intimate gatherings events ranging from product launches through to birthday and engagement celebrations will be well and truly well catered for. Emmilou accommodates up to 24 in the inside dining room, or up to 44 guests with seating on the terrace as well. Food packages range from $45 - $65/head. Reservations can be mde for standing functions for up to 30 people. Smoking is permitted on the open-air terrace. Canapé style food packages from $25 - $45/head.