Rockpool Bar and Grill

LOCATION
On the corner of Hunter and Bligh Streets in the city. Close to Circular Quay and Martin Place.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Neil Perry’s be-feathered cap is getting a little crowded with plumes and yet he has managed to squeeze in another monolithic triumph somewhere in the gaps. Boasting one of Sydney’s most strikingly gorgeous dining rooms, Rockpool Bar and Grill is located within the depths of the 1936 Emil Sodersteen-designed art deco building; its entry, while a little intimidating, is nonetheless spectacular. Once ushered inside, the marble columns and soaring ceiling are enough to keep your face turned upwards; however, the menu will quickly vie for attention through way of your tastebuds. Sourcing ingredients from Australia’s premium producers, and making a point of dry aging the beef themselves, the fare predominately focuses on wood-fire grilled meats and seafood.

The four types of beef – ranging from Wagyu rib eye to skirt cuts – provides the perfect opportunity to carve into Australia’s best, and the team encourage a shared dining experience for a comparison of different cuts. The seafood selection too, offers delicious dishes such as a black lip abalone steak, charcoal oven-grilled swordfish and crispy leatherjacket fillets with “crazy water”. Before you dive headfirst into mains, whet your appetite with a lobster omelette with prawn sauce, oven-roasted sardines on preserved lemon salsa or follow through with the underlying theme and tuck into Neil’s steak tartare with chips. You’re almost certainly going to find a delectable drop to match your meal from the (bordering on ridiculous) 3500-deep wine list, although it may put a small dent in your wallet. The connecting bar provides an idyllic setting for a post or pre-dinner drink, or a more casual dining affair.

Annabel Wise