LOCATION In the centre of Darling Harbour, right by the IMAX Theatre
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA We have Italian institutions, tapas trend setters and enough sushi to get to Japan and back, however South African is a cuisine Sydney’s dining scene seems to lack. The Meat and Wine Co. has opened in Darling Harbour bringing African flavour to a waterfront view.
Its open frontage welcomes the harbour breeze making it an oasis from hot Australian days. Inside, sandstone carvings climb the walls and lead to the bustling open kitchen where ribs, steaks and bauvewors sausages sizzle. A level above the flurry of Darling Harbour, cocktails and wine are served amongst the dimly lit mystique of the Puza Bar.
South African dishes and modern Australian fare reach across the menu from plump prawns dressed in Portuguese sauce, and grilled chicken wings glossy with thick marinade. Traditional South African boerewors sausages are plump with succulent meat and lightly spiced with nutmeg, while tomato relish spills over their accompaniment of white doughy pap.
South Africa’s love for strongly flavoured meats inspires the menu with choices made by the weight, cut, breed and feed. The Monte Gold 250gram fillet is a rosy medium-rare colour inside, while the meaty flesh of the pork ribs is infused with honey mustard and subtle rosemary. The sweetness of pumpkin complements tender slices of kangaroo fillet to be dipped in black cherry jus. The strong wines are drawn from around Australia and New Zealand, with some particularly notable drops from South Africa’s famous Stellenbosch region.
Indulgent desserts are reason enough to visit with delicate creations that contrast to the hearty dishes. A gooey melted centre breaks through warm dark chocolate and pistachio fondant, and a crisp biscuit case holds caramelised condensed cream and mascarpone cheese layered in toffee-crusted banana slices.
The Meat and Wine Co. is a comfortable and friendly restaurant serving hearty meals and strong wines with an exotic African edge.
Edwina Storie
DETAILSOpening times: 12:00noon until late 7 days a week.
PRIVATE DINING ROOMSBuffalo Room - Find yourself overlooking the hustle and bustle of the kitchen in your own room. You can watch as the chefs prepare your meals in their arena. With a maximum capacity of 16 guests, you can dine in comfort up and away from the maddening crowds. The minimum spend when using the Rhino room is $2000.00
Rhino Room - This sumptuous private dining room lends itself wonderfully to any corporate affair or private function and has the added benefit of being divided into two rooms for group break-out sessions or semi-private dining. The Rhino Room can comfortably accommodate up to 14 guests. Minimum spend when using the Buffalo room is $2000.00