LOCATIONOn the corner of Castlereagh and King Streets in the heart of the CBD.
DETAILSSubsolo, which means ‘basement’ in Portuguese, puts an entirely new, sexy spin on the typically unassuming underground room. A discreet doorway leads to a lavish dining space, where exposed brick walls and low lighting evoke the clandestine atmosphere of private dens. Hot red accents recall the spicy Spanish cuisine and passion of the Iberian homeland, as sculptural crimson lampshades create a canopy of warmth above scarlet-curtained booths.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIABillowing chiffon curtains that encompass clandestine booths, room dividers made of rough thatching and smooth leather chairs make this a restaurant that embraces textures. You can’t help but feel a little sexier as you step down, New York-style, into the basement of Subsolo’s designer dining room which oozes come hither-ness combined with European class and sophistication. Sultry lighting effuses over tapas bars, banquettes and private rooms, setting the mood for an indulgent modern Spanish dining occasion. No expense has been spared when it comes to style and this is also evident in the superior produce used in both kitchen and bar.
After indulging in possibly the best sangria this side of the equator, share a few tapas plates to whet the appetite and notice how the texture motif spills over into the menu. Baked pimientos rellenos with goat’s cheese, pine nuts and wild rocket is simple, yet smooth, fresh and surprisingly delectable. Char-grilled baby squid stuffed with paella and served on burnt anchovy butter gives a delightful little spring under the fork and bursts with European flavour. A predominantly Spanish wine list marries your choice of dishes wonderfully, so take the time to peruse the list again before moving on to the next course. Portuguese espetadas are show-stopping skewers of barbecue meat which dangle daintily from stands placed on your table. This is where your tongs come in handy as you slide off individual pieces of prawns wrapped in Spanish jamon, barbecued quail with a sherry glaze or rock-salt crusted rump steak. The experience is not complete without spooning into the crema catalana, bruleed at the table mind you, accompanied with a nip of sherry. With a passion that shines through loud and clear, the team at Subsolo will pull out all stops to ensure your experience is sensational.
Annabel Wise
FUNCTIONSHidden away under Sydney's most prestigious retail corner, Subsolo is an amazing underground space with a 'New York meets Barcelona' vibe and an ambience to charm and indulge your senses. From 20 to 200 guests, the restaurant can cater for both social and corporate events.