Bistro Two Dozen

LOCATION
On the corner of Rathdowne and Kay Street, halfway between Palmerston Street and Princes Street.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Bistro Two Dozen began life as a rundown little newsagency, but two years of slow and intense renovation has rendered a modern but cosy corner bistro which oozes chic European style and offers a small but extremely well considered menu. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink downstairs in a tiny but ultra-luxe cellar bar which has the look and feel of an extremely well appointed railway carriage. Ascend to the bistro above where the light and breezy decor has a fresh, French brasserie allure and the menu is peppered with straightforward dishes that represent their ingredients at their best. The garlic bread alone is just one example of the innovative twist given to simple dishes – it’s a DIY affair consisting of a bulb of slow-roasted garlic, rosemary salt, olive oil and char-grilled sourdough bread.

The focus here is on a small, seasonal menu offering good range and several daily specials to keep the regulars happy. Fresh seafood is always on the menu, whether it be an entree of butterflied sardines with gremolata on bruschetta or a main of pan-fried salmon with wasabi puree, while meat dishes might include beef short ribs with Asian herb salad, pork belly with braised red cabbage and crab apple sauce or kangaroo with polenta chips and sweet potato puree. Bistro Two Dozen really is a classic bistro in that it offers simple food cooked with flair and at very reasonable prices. Locals will also love the fact that all dishes are available to take away. With a welcoming, neighbourhood feel to it, this is the kind of small, comfortable restaurant that will keep people returning again and again.

Angela Costanzo