PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIASimpatico is fairly new to Paddington, nearing its 1st birthday, but the owners of Simpatico are certainly not new to the restaurant scene. Boasting a stylish, yet relaxed atmosphere that takes advantage of the moderate Queensland climate, the elegant roomy veranda features polished black slate tiles, matching black tables, and comfortable cane chairs – a theme that follows through into the bar with its decorative mirrors, white lounges and full-length windows.
Not only is the appearance of Simpatico impressive, the food is as well. The cuisine is modern Australian with Mediterranean and Asian influences. What does that mean you ask? Well the menu, that changes monthly, could feature just about anything. The one thing that remains constant is the quality, and the fact that meals, whether small or large, are designed to be shared. Favourites include fried green olives with roast garlic and mayonnaise; pork belly with green pawpaw, mango and nahm prik; and the tea-smoked Atlantic salmon on pickled cucumber soba salad with salmon roe. The wine list is extensive with wines from Australia, New Zealand, France, Spain and Portugal to complement your meal. Finish your meal with the fine apple tart served with double cream – although this dish is worth keeping all to yourself.
Meagan Hepworth, March 2007