American
Let’s Meat at LP’s Quality Meats
LET’S MEEEEAT! So it seems we were all feeling a little peckish for meat and so the journey begins at LP’s Quality Meats in Chippendale. To enjoy your experience here I’d suggest to wear something super comfy for example wear fat pants or perhaps bring a pair and put it in your handbag because if you don’t you don’t you’ll be walking like a model who has a twisted stomach or something.
It’s a meat post!
We arrived 10 minutes after the restaurant had opened and already there were hungry peeps huddled up around the bar thinking about what they should for dinner. Whilst making those tough discussions it was wise to order an alcoholic beverage and soak in the the LP vibes.
The early hungry birds that get the worms
What’s for dinner folks?
Of all possible poultries to sample we opt for the chicken liver pâté ($16), which I thought would be a great starting point. To our surprise we had complimentary sea salt butter, marinated olives, gigantic green jalapeño looking all innocent next to the English mustard.
Chicken Liver Pate got me saying OOHhhh & Ahhhh.
Oddly enough I was shocked to have enjoyed the house-made sour dough with the chicken liver pâté together. The bread was soft and spongy with the heavenly spread of pâté.
House-Made Sour Dough Bread
On the face of it, the pâté looked tasty with its blushing pink colour and smooth honey coating with sprinkles of black pepper. It certainly was flavourful and wasn’t overpowering or thick in texture rather light and smooth. We all agreed that it wasn’t short on chicken liver flavour. It was a real winner for the table!
Can’t have it in any other way…
Wasn’t sure if I could finish what I had started because I could feel my soul in a ball of fire as soon as I took a tiny bite out of the green jalapeño that was at least 10cm tall, YIKES! I was on Struggle Street as the chilli range went from moderately to extremely hot, call the fire brigades guys!
Life is like a jar of jalapeños, you never knew which one is going to burn your tongue.
Didn’t want to be a party pooper and not order the gin ($18). It was a great introduction to explore this classic drink and with its acquired subtle sweet tangy taste, I sure wouldn’t mind going for another round.
Forgive me for I have ginned.
In between our starter we noticed a few undercover visitors headed towards the kitchen and gathered around the smoking machine where the meat dreams come true.
Look who we have here…is it the LP Meat Gods?
The beef tongue ($18) had awakened my tastebuds as I never knew that part of the beef with smoked beef fat vinaigrette could be so well married. This was by far the best warm starter dish to order if you fancy a twist.
Beef Tongue with Smoked Beef Fat Vinaigrette ($18)
It may look slightly frightening for some as it looked raw but flavour-wise, we all enjoyed it, especially with the bathed chopped Spanish onions and fresh parsley in the vinaigrette added that extra oomph to it.
Now that’s a really thin beef tongue slice.
I was excused for one moment whilst the Toronto Maple ($18) spun me right round, baby right round like I had entered the Wizard of Oz when Dorothy had somehow got swirled into the mystic clouds. The drink had strong notes of alcohol which I felt it had cleansed my insides so thoroughly that I could only take tiny sips at a time. On a fun note if you’re looking for something wicked on a Friday night then this is the go to.
That Toronto Maple sure made my head spin.
The smoked beef short rib ($48) deserves a special place in my heart and I think it’s important for people who like meat are made aware this badass of a rib exists. You want to know more, don’t you? Well you gotta continue reading…so scroll down!
Smoked Beef Short Rib ($48 -Left) & Smoked Sausage ($14-Right)
Hallelujah in my mouth was the smoked beef rib! I felt like I had a connection with that thick juicy piece of tender meat and it may sound like I was overreacting but surely you can agree with me if you were there to witness and taste it yourself. I was in disbelief that the rib was so tender and completely balanced with smoky flavours all around that I didn’t need the English mustard, tomato sauce or chimichurri. I couldn’t and wouldn’t stop when I had my first bite; however the only problem for us was we demanded more of it but bear in mind the price tag, so we had to end it here.
Let us meat again, pretty please?!
Time is a funny thing because when we had ordered the bread roll ($2 p.p), we had thought of a clever idea and built our own beef rib burger without any extras required. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to provide proof of this as I was in a bit of a sticky situation, but imagine having two of your favourite things – meat & carbs put together and then VOILA! You know you want it…haha.
You see me bread rolling…you’re hating.
Finally for the smoked sausage ($14) the texture and smell were promising, as was the enticing glossy smoky look. Without being overpowering with spices it was a taste we’d all enjoyed as the texture was neither too firm nor soft and tasted gourmet.
You’re looking smoking hot LP sausage!
A highlight at LP Quality Meats was everything on their menu are all hand made in- house, which means what you pay for is what you get. The MUST HAVE I’d recommend include chicken liver pate, beef tongue and smoked beef short rib. Everything on their menu is for sharing and it would be best to go with no more or less than 4 hungry humans, just so you can try a bit of everything. To the LP Meat Gods out there, please take me with you on your journey to the meat land as I really enjoyed all the dishes we ordered.
Watched the LP Boys Work Work Work Work
Photos by Vanny Tang
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Take 2: My Food Bag- Healthy Recipes Made at Home
What a surprise we are halfway through winter. With this cold season making feel a little insecure about my eating habits, we’ve become attached to My Food Bag, so that we can ease our way through to eating healthy again and reminding ourselves that there’s FRESH fruit and vegetables options for when we cook at home.
That healthy rainbow spread right at your door step.
There has been some recent improvements that My Food Bag product and experience made.
New Monday AM delivery time – Enjoy delivery while you sleep! My Food Bag now offers their foodies the added convenience of a NEW delivery window, Monday 2:00am – 7:00am. Win back your weekend and wake up to a delivery on your doorstep! It’s all part of continuing to offer a convenient service to suit the busy lives of their foodies.
New planet-friendly packaging – My Food Bag is committed to delivering their foodies only the freshest seasonal produce available, in packaging which is planet-friendly. They’re now delivering the goodness in their 100% recyclable Chilltainers and Brown Paper Boxes, all kept cool by their new recyclable ice bricks. This new packaging has replaced their traditional bags to continue to ensure the best quality delivery service.
New suppliers – My Food Bag has teamed up with a number of new local suppliers to continue to bring their foodies only the best! While of course remaining free-range, organic and sustainably sourced (wherever possible)
Reduced recipe times – A team of nutritionists and dietitians have been working hard to reduce their recipe preparation time, while retaining variation and a healthy balance of ingredients
No kidding about freshest local Australian produce, meat and fish.
Let’s experience first-hand the following changes… 🙂 Excited (*Insert* happy dance)
Now let’s start with delivery…I must say My Food Bag does keep you informed through email and text, even days before your order, so that you are aware your groceries are coming. Thumb up for that top quality service. Whilst I was in bed dreaming about the things I’m going to cook for that week I did receive 2 alerts on my phone; one for when they deliver and the other saying my groceries are in front of my door.
Delivery came on time just before I head to work. Many ticks for that!
Unpacked my goodies around 8am and they were still nice and chilled. I could smell all the ingredients even before I had opened the brown box. Now that’s another thumb up for quality food supplies.
Didn’t need to waste time hitting the markets to find fresh meat. Thumbs up for that effort!
I dare you to take a peek at the latest scrumdiddlyumptious creations from Nadia Lim and her team for easy recipes cooked in your very own kitchen.
Day 1: MEXICAN FISH & SWEET POTATO NACHO BOWLS
Taste: An old-fashioned favorite made with the freshest of ingredients. Enjoyed tasting the blend of vegetables with the marinated spice mix fish. It seriously was fresh from the fields to my dinner table. My tastebuds could separately taste the cubes fresh fish and veggies. The only thing that bugged me was my sweet potato wasn’t cooked as I followed the recipe. Other than that this was an earth friendly meal.
Verdict: Let’s taco bout this recipe baby, it felt like a fun Friday night meal that was super perfect for my boring Monday night in. I spiced up my nacho bowls with edible Old El Paso Stand ‘n Stuff soft tortilla bowls instead of using the suggested homeware bowls. I mean life is easier when everything is edible, right? Muahahaha. Saved myself from cleaning more dishes by adding my own idea to this dish and yes I was completely stuffed with two nacho bowls.
There’s something fishy about this dinner…haha.
Mexican Fish & Sweet Potato Nacho Bowls
Day 2: PARMESAN & BASIL CHICKEN WITH LEMON POTATOES & CHARRED GREENS
Taste: Might I say fresh, generous, and prepared to perfection, this chicken stuffed with parmesan and basil will leave you wanting more. I was stunned that I made this all by myself. It truly had extraordinary flavours that I never knew it was possible. Don’t normally eat chicken breasts because it always turns out dry for me whenever I cook it, but nope not these breasts. Super juicy because of the parmesan. Loved the fragrant of the basil, garlic and red onion whilst it was cooking in the oven. Gold medal for the rich and hearty flavour.
Verdict: I’m really not sure what to say because I have never been in this kind of situation before, but HEAVENS YES I’d make this again, any day. First time stuffing these breasts with an intriguing filling that I could not have imagined. A delicious and easy-to-prepare chicken breasts that makes a great presentation and fills up any big stomach. Felt guilty (NOT) eating parmesan for a Tuesday night but when it’s mixed with red onion, basil and garlic, you know you have to let the guilty card slide. Thank the veggie gods for arriving on time to balance this meal. So far so good! I think this has become my signature dish for when friends come over to eat.
There’s there’s THERE’S parmesan in this dish 😀
This is new for me…parmesan, basil, garlic, lemon and red onion mixed together…
Using toothpicks for this recipe. Don’t pick on my breasts! Haha
Just winged it. Teeheehee.
Parmesan & Basil Chicken with Lemon Potatoes & Charred Greens
Day 3: GARAM MASALSA BEEF WITH MUSHROOMS RAGOUT SPINCH & FLATBREADS
Taste: Sadly this dish was my least favourite (insert sad face) because it didn’t blend so well together. I wasn’t a huge fan of the sourness taste of the tomato base dish, then moving on to the creamy mayo flavour from the spinach and finally the garam masala beef strips. Don’t get me wrong, all 3 dishes had a full burst of flavour, but it wasn’t what I was expecting. On a much happier note I enjoyed dipping my Lebanese slice bread into the mushroom ragout.
Verdict: It’s a great destination meal for those who heart mushroom and cherry tomatoes. Would suggest to substitute the spinach with cos lettuce so it would marry so well with the garam masala beef strips. I had plenty of leftovers and decided to mix the mushroom ragout with brown rice and as for the gram masalsa beef it turned out to be a kebab using the bread and adding with spinach.
Garam Masalsa Beef with Mushrooms Ragout Spinch & Flatbreads
Day 4: LAMB LEG STEAKS WITH CORIANDER PESTO LEMON KALE & RICE
Taste: Silver medal for this dish as there was no game smell of the lamb and who knew you could cook kale. I was shocked you could mix lamb with sweet chilli sauce. It was a great steak that was so juicy that you accidentally bursted the water pipe…well almost. Loved the subtle hints of sweet, chilli from the lamb and as for the kale…OH MY! Incredible flavour that I wished I found this sooner. As for the rice I totally forgot about that being there because I was so distracted by that lamb leg and veggies.
Verdict: I am very like VERY sensitive to wanting to cook lamb in my own kitchen and eating kale during dinner time because both don’t mix so well in my books, but I was wrong. A winning pair of kale and lamb leg bursted intense flavors and alluring aromas. Loved the serving of solider carrots and mountains of kale.
There’s lamb leg and kale on the menu…first time cooking these ingredients.
Lamb Leg Steaks with Coriander Pesto Lemon Kale & Rice
Day 5: BACON & ZUCCHINI RISOTTO WITH PEAR & PARMESAN SALAD
Taste: This dish didn’t go bacon my heart…thank the food gods, instead it was warming my heart. This risotto covered in a decadent creamy texture and dusted with parmesan made me lick my plate clean. A healthy pile of greens with the added pear fruit as a side salad offered a bright crunch when paired with the risotto.
Verdict: I must say I’m surprised with this recipe. Risotto is something I don’t normally whip up in the kitchen because rice doesn’t cook properly, but it turned out very smooth and creamy. As for a salad that has slices of pear in it, impressive. I do like pear salad now, thanks to My Food Bag!
It’s so hot inside, I’m bacon!
Bacon & Zucchini Risotto with Pear & Parmesan Salad
Thoughts about My Food Bag
Regards to the following changes that was mentioned at the beginning of this post, let’s see if it approved on the Nessy Eater radar.
- Delivery time – Spot on with timing and they text you before and after to confirm delivery to your home
- Packaging – Can’t blame if it’s recyclable and helping the environment
- Food Products – Still impressed with the high quality and fresh ingredients. I’m still intrigued with lamb leg steaks! YUM!
- Reduced recipe times – 4 out of 5 recipes was super easy to assemble as it only required chopping and assembling the ingredients into one pot, so yes it did reduce 5-15 minutes.
Other notes
- My Food Bag menus use only fresh seasonal produce, so there’s nothing frozen and they choose free-range and sustainably farmed products
- Nutritionally balanced meals for all 5 nights
- Read more here
When it comes to purchasing a week’s worth of groceries, it’s frightening to try new things for example purchasing new meat parts, spices or vegetables because it’s very costly and it takes so much of your time thinking about what to make out of it, but with My Food Bag they’ve done the dirty work for you.
Overall my view on My Food Bag hasn’t changed even for my previous review. My Food Bag does an excellent job with providing fresh ingredients and delicious recipes that can cater for those who cannot cook (that’s me).
Photos by Vanny Tang
Disclaimer: Nessy Eater received a trial of My Food Bag-Classic, thanks to My Food Bag.
Opinions are however, Nessy Eater’s own.
Check out other My Food Bag post I did. Click here.
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Bacon All The Rules at Cuckoo Callay Festival
It must be true love that I am not a vegetarian because of bacon. No one else can break my heart like bacon can. I admit all my problems go away when there’s bacon right in front of me. So if you need a bacon fix maybe it’s time to bacon-ing your way to Cuckoo Callay. For 12 weeks they’ve created something astonishing for Newtown that no café has ever done in Sydney. It’s called BACON FESTIVAL. It’s for real, BACON FESTIVAL exists and you don’t want to go bacon your own heart if you missed out. If you totally HEART BACON like I do, you properly wondered off and I bet you are open to seduction as soon as you see that glossy piece of juicy bacon. I know it’s the sweet smells and varied pinkish colours, but that doesn’t mean you are not in control.
Pigging it out at Cuckoo Callay
And the Bacon Festival goes like this…
What a Croque of Bacon ($19) that tried to control me with its loooooooooooonnng strips of bacon and basil. Then when I closely looked into the vintage cheddar croquettes I was drunk by its diced pieces of bourbon bacon, pea puree and two poached eggs with that gooey sunrise yolk. If you want to know how to make a bacon lover smile, then this is it my friends. A dusting of breadcrumbs on the croquettes really makes this dish sing. It’s the crispy croquettes center filling that opens new flavours as the effects of bourbon bacon is deeply aromatic.
What a Croque of Bacon ($19)
What about that sexy long bacon strip? Well…there was a silent treatment at our table, so I’m not too sure what everybody was thinking, but for me, I was so high I didn’t recognise the fire that was burning in people’s eyes when I snatched the larger strip. Obviously full of flavour so that was pretty damn tasty!
You so fine bacon stripe! And oozy egg yolk inward shot.
Next up I may have ordered Shake ‘n’ Bacon ($9)! Super AMAZING and totally worth building up my calcium intake. Teehee. Can’t go wrong with bacon plus maple syrup, although the sweet syrup was glued at the bottom making a sudden burst of intense sugariness. Overall there’s so much DELICIOUSNESS hidden in this mason jar.
Shake ‘n’ Bacon ($9)
Can’t go wrong with awesome maple-caramelized bacon, right? I think this bacon milkshake is shouting “drink me!”.
Bacon sprinkles on me Shake ‘n’ Bacon *SCREAMS*
Rules for a happy relationship with bacon is getting the Bacon All the Rules ($24) dish. This is one engaging plate that is only suitable for happy pigs and inner oinkers to run wild. Every component on this dish is lip smacking and appealing to not share with your partner in crime. We start off with Black Forest Smokehouse maple bacon and bourbon bacon that floated happily atop. Next we dissected that fatty chunk of bacon steak that was really appetising that I had to go for seconds. OH! And whoever came up with bacon sausage is uber insane, yet one hell of a genius. You know you want it before anyone else can get it. It tasted absolutely perfect that there was no flaws about this sausage at all. I loved the bite-size pieces of bacon inside the sausage and saltiness was just right. All that bacon madness is also served with bacon-crumbed poached eggs with sourdough. This is one dish on the menu that you won’t go home hungry or disappointed. If you’re looking for a jam-packed bacon session, then this is it!
Bacon All the Rules ($24)
Need to wash all that bacon down? Why not give this Bloody Bacon Cuckootail ($14) a go! It’s insanely mixed with tomato juice, tabasco, salt, pepper and a shot of vodka. I was so out of breath when I sipped this cocktail. The level of spiciness is somewhat high for a person who does not often eat much spices. I spy with my eyes I see a strip of bacon and slices of pickles.
Bloody Bacon Cuckootail ($14)
Only one thing can make a hot dog on a summer afternoon better and that’s if it’s stuffed with maple glazed bacon sausage with gruyere cheese sauce, tomato and quince relish, crackling and dill mustard pickles. Ya I’m describing the Bacon Dawg ($16)!!! I was prepared but I think I didn’t prepare enough for this dawg. The thing about this is it did quite fit together. It was a little overwhelming with the sprinkles of crackle and relish as well as the dill mustard. Totes superior brunch eats.
Bacon Dawg ($16)
Smashed that bad boy!
Look what we have here… Don’t Go Bacon My Heart (NOTE: these babes were sample sizes) and OHMYGAWD these are unforgettable. I was incredibly happy when these kids size burger landed on the palm of my hand. The savory beer and tomato chutney, mustard aioli and slaw on brioche added another inch of flavour. Yes not healthy, but I’ve got my game face on! Without a doubt the popcorn chicken and beer candied bacon was noticeable. Hmmm it was the right ratio of chicks and pigs.
Don’t Go Bacon My Heart
You know you want this. Teehee.
Woah! This brioche is stuffed with a lot of meat.
By now I needed granny pants, if possible the XXXL ones. The amount of food coming in one after the other was fit for a King and Queen. So when Bacon, Get in Ma Belly ($20) arrived looking oh so scrumptious I had to do what was right, continue nomming. Lucky I followed my heart because the pork belly with fennel seed sauce with bacon, caper, coriander and lime salad was off the chain insane. Combine with a bowl of white rice would have been lovely. I was nervous when I attacked the slices of candied sweet chilli because between you and me I don’t normally touch chilli, but I did tell Michael from I’m Still Hungry that I will be practising my chilli levels this year. Wish me luck! Anyways back to that chilli…far out it was ADDICTIVE! I had such courage to even pop a few more slices in my mouth. It was seriously hotter than my first date. The one thing which lost some points would be the crackling skin, it was moist. There were signs of crispiness however the texture didn’t meat it. It must be the troubled Asian fusion flavour sauce that drowned the crispy skin crackle. Haha.
Bacon, Get in Ma Belly ($20)
That pork. Full Stop.
Here’s a morning breakfast for you to enjoy with your partner yourself; Ya Bacon Me Crazy ($20). This type of love is not rational, it’s 100% physical. Don’t cry if your calories start to sky rocket because every bite is seriously worth it. The caramel and cinnamon ice cream was heavily guarded by three handsome strips of maple bacon that’s drenched in maple syrup and chocolate coated bourbon bacon. Tucked underneath you can see the buttermilk waffles and MORE house-made bacon. Man, I love what you do but you know that you’re toxic, right? 😛
Ya Bacon Me Crazy ($20)
I told you I wasn’t kidding about the chocolate coated bourbon BACON SOILDERS heavily securing the caramel and cinnamon ice cream. PICTURE PROOF!
Bacon’s looking streaky, I LIKE! :p
Boy I needed another session of washing down all that tasty bacon, so I opted for Smokey Bourbon Bacon with fresh apple juice ($12). Sadly I couldn’t really taste the bacon, instead the sourness of the apple juice. But that’s cool I needed something refreshing to bring me back to Earth from this CRAZY BACON FEAST.
Smokey Bourbon Bacon with fresh apple juice ($12)
Introducing Drizzle Sticks (NOTE: sample sizes) that knocks your socks off! *HEAVY BREATHING* Maybe the streaky bourbon bacon drizzled in chocolate and hazelnut thought it could hide from this mama, but I could smell that greasy bacon scent from miles away. Oh bacon you can’t stay away from me, we are meant to be. At first I wasn’t too keen on chocolate + bacon, BUT I’ve learnt not to judge a book by its cover.
Drizzle Sticks
Picture this no touching, no kissing AND no good loving with bacon will be so cold. Life wouldn’t be the same, I’m telling you. Without bacon fire will burn through your soul. So what’s holding you back to visit the Bacon Festival at Cuckoo Callay?
Oh Yeah!!! Got the BIG piece. 😀
Photos by Vanny Tang
Disclaimer: Nessy Eater attended as a guest thanks to Wasamedia. Opinions are however, Nessy Eater’s own.
Check out my other Cuckoo Callay post I did. Click here and here.
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Swissotel Sydney Christmas Afternoon Tea Buffet
HAPPY 2015 FOODIE FRIENDS! Can you believe it’s mid of January already?! By now you may have noticed Nessy Eater’s been busy indulging desserts and summery meals on Instagram. The Food Gods knew that they’d needed new volunteers to take up the festive Christmas feast and so they immediately decided to choose me. OH the pain I had to endure and retire my typewriter during the holiday season. But sometimes when you’re giving a task during Xmas by the Food Gods and it involves your stomach and gingerbread man, it’s automatically a food hall pass. This hall pass was cherished and used judiciously for it is not an easy thing to obtain. The hall pass is something to be prized and by verbal consent from the Food Gods and Santa, Nessy Eater has permission to share great foods with you kids. What are you waiting for? Let’s begin!
It’s my second visit to Crossroads Bar at Swissotel Sydney and just before I had retired my typewriter and crisp white paper, I managed to spot a really good deal on Groupon. For $79 for two people, you get Christmas Weekend High Tea plus a cocktail for each person. Before treating your tummy to savoury foods and sweet delights, I wanted to quickly inform you that this deal was ALL YOU CAN EAT high tea. I repeat High Tea BUFFET. DON’T PANIC IF YOU’VE MISSED OUT! After a quick investigation like a detective I found out through the Swissotel’s website the high tea buffet is still on but not Xmas themed though. I’m sure it would be still as good and it is normally $79 per person. That’s CRAZY! I saved $79! This by far was the best deal that I’ve ever purchased from Groupon.
Are you drooling?
Before thunder and lightning strikes to my typewriter I think it’s now time to share the Christmas spirit with you. Within a 5-star luxury hotel the Swissotel does get a thumbs up for their modern and elegant interior, however their service and overall management did not make it to a two-star. We were disappointed by the lack of service and management skills. For example when we arrived, staffs at the Swissotel looked like they wanted to wrestle with guests in UFC style. You could see it in their eyes they were very frustrated and sad, especially when there was one main bartender, a supervisor and three waitresses serving around fourty five plus guests. Waitresses responded with a robotic tone and left unhappily after we made our beverage orders. I guess Santa’s been overworking his helpers. Anyways moving on to rainbows and unicorns.
Our festive fare started with Christmas pudding. This traditional pud is made from vine fruit and butter, eggs and a splash of vanilla custard. Each handmade pudding was the size of a baseball and half a tennis ball. What does it taste like? Think fruitcake. It’s not everyone’s taste as it’s an acquired taste, it’s cream sauce with dried fruits in it. I think it err needed lots of cream to tone it down.
Christmas pudding
Strawberry cream caramel kept vanishing every time I was forced to return to the dessert bar. Lightly greasy but it’s wrapped around a creamy center that won’t disappoint. The half sliced strawberry made this dessert refreshing. I like the chance to play around with the wobbly jelly like texture of the cream caramel before I devour it. It gives me time to mingle before I say good-bye to it for the second time. If you’re craving for that caramel sauce to take home then you need to ask Executive Chef Thomas Heinrich for a favour.
Strawberry cream caramel
I managed to somehow not shatter the blackberry pavlova into a million pieces before it made it back to my table. The fun sized pavlova looked like snow ball meringues. It was extremely light and airy. Being able to taste it for the third time, it was one of those fabulous treats to go along with a cup of tea.
Blackberry pavlova
As Christmas traditions go, starting a marvellous high tea with a shot of eggnog is another great way to celebrate the festive season. The shot was very satisfying as there was an egg-rich dairy punch flavour. It can be very boozy and super rich if there’s more eggs added, but thankfully not.
Eggnog shots
Festive must haves were the fruit mince tart. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without buttery pastries and fruity mince pies. These delectable star shaped mince pies simply provided a moment of self-indulgence for me. The outside butter-enriched pastry is stuffed with chunks of moist fruit and topped with heavy sprinkles of icing.
Fruit star tart
Oh hot summer days means we need to thank the bartender at Swissotel for making us the strawberry cocktail. Though we were half way feeding our inner cravings, we still managed to wash this beverage down. The sweetness of the strawberries was a real crowd pleaser and off course the rum. It wasn’t sickly sweet, which is good news coming from the syrup. The texture kicked ass as it felt like a strawberry slushy rather than a classic cocktail.
Strawberry cocktail
Me thinks the strawberry panna cotta was carefully crafted. The strawberries makes a great companion with the panna cotta for bright, sharp summer fruit. The taste was somewhat cream-heavier but that didn’t matter too much because I was mildly annoyed at the casual sophistication of the presentation for this dessert.
Strawberry panna cotta
Just look at how this chocolate fountain GLISTENS! It brings a smile to everyone’s face including the grumpy cats. Stop making me smile chocolate fountain! STOP IT!
Chocolate fountain
I simply couldn’t get enough of the salted caramel and jam lamingtons. The lamingtons were sandwiching the sweet jam. I tried burying evidence of me eating this, but the shredded dried coconuts around my mouth gave it away.
Salted caramel and jam lamingtons
This chilled blueberry panna cotta in a miniature plastic cup was simply impressive. The fresh blueberries and pipped cream married so well with the silky smooth vanilla bean gelatine.
Blueberry panna cotta
With our voucher package, we were treated with selections of tea or coffee. All teas are from T2.
English breakfast by T2
Tempt the tastebuds with smoked salmon tartar with pipped cream cheese on waffle cone. It’s so easy to eat and I didn’t notice I ate five till I started counting the gold wrappers. Oh Whoops!
Smoked salmon tartar cone
Not sure if sandwiches are meant to look like they’re all swirled up but hey I’m loving it. This smoked turkey, pickled raspberry jam and rocket on harvest grain was juicy with that jam spread across the bread so evenly. The thick pieces of turkey was zomg crazy ass delicious.
Smoked turkey swirl sandwich
Making my way back to the buffet bar and look who do we have here…cocktail prawn station with Crystal Bay Australian reef prawn cocktail with lemon and cocktail dressing.
Cocktail prawn station
The fire roasted red capsicums with green olive and goat cheese baguette was my least favourite. It was an interesting take on for me in terms of flavours. It has that sweet sourness from the olive and cold texture of goat cheese which I didn’t favour.
Bitesize baguette
Wicked, decadent and sinful was hardly the best description for these dreamy little masterpieces. I took my time connecting with the Christmas profiteroles. Glazed with milk chocolate atop and sprinkles of crushes chocolate pieces, I think it was the perfect addition to the buffet bar.
Christmas profiteroles
Wait there’s MORE DESSERTS?! I became very full from stuffing my belly with trying a bit of everything, but noooooooo the pastry chef had to bring this blackberry and white chocolate mousse just before I was about to pack my fat body and go. My belly was crying on the inside but because this mousse cake was beautifully presented, I had to cut a seven inch width slice of cake.
Blackberry and white chocolate mousse
I spy with my eyes….. is that a full plate of Christmas macarons? A sensational dessert that always alwAYS ALWAYS pleases! Hehe.
Christmas macarons
We had to arrange a little bit more stomach space for the spring berry tart. Glad we did because that tart had just came straight out of the pastry headquarters looking all innocent and sweet.
Spring berry tart
Woohoo our Christmas Afternoon Tea finally came to an end, however I’m sorry I’ve missed out taking a few photos of some desserts and savories. Overall I loved skipping my way to the buffet bar and thank goodness majority of the desserts and savoury tasted magical so I could forget about their below average service. Totes heart every single desserts presentation. Swissotel is a great spot for afternoon tea whores, for example like me, although it’s a tad pricey but it’s ALL YOU CAN EAT sugar. To my disappointment I couldn’t walk out of the hotel like a Victoria Secret Model in high heels. Instead I left waddling out like Mumble from Happy Feet and swore to myself that I ain’t gonnabe eating dinner…
Top view of spring berry tart
Photos by Vanny Tang
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Munching on Meat District Co. at King Street Wharf
With summer fast approaching the kings of Meat District Co. owner Garry Simonian and his brother Coco has made people screaming for RIBS, BURGERS AND COCKTAILS at King Street Wharf. This two storey restaurant with water views, a room that displays cured meats and outdoor seating is the venue for everyone to dine at. It’s an ideal spot for those who like to celebrate TGIF and feed those who have a love affair with meat. Garry who also operates the Sydney-based Platinum Restaurant Group has plans to schedule another Meat District Co. in the Western suburbs of Sydney-Parramatta in 2015. When I first walked into Meat District Co., my eyes was already captivated by the industrial design and downstairs the open kitchen. Also not to mention that spectacular view of Sydney’s harbour whilst sipping on a cocktail or eating is breathtaking.
There’s a bar area at Meat District Co.
Spacious seating at Meat District Co.
At last a see-through charcuterie room!
We started to check out MDC’s bar which promises to deliver an ever changing molecular cocktail special. This cocktail will not be wasted as it is the kind of addiction you’ll be pleased to have in Sydney. It’s certainly unique for Nessy Eater girl and never have we come across this type of cocktail before. A spectacular start for the party season!
In the process of making molecular gastronomy cocktails
There’s a lot of steps to making molecular gastronomy cocktails
Mixologist Mirko Cacciola plating these cocktails up!
Disguised as delicate pearls the molecular cocktails ($M.P) will blow you away by their refreshing foams and be amazed by their edible spheres. This epic art of cocktail is inspired by the art of molecular science and has extremely taken to new heights of an ordinary cocktail in a glass. These spoonful of alcohol knows how to play innocent especially when they remind me of a particular method of remedy. Haha.
These molecular gastronomy cocktails are dangerously addictive.
Ready to feast your eyes?!
So it turns out actor Firass Dirani from Underbelly: The Golden Mile decided to join us for lunch at MDC. Hey I’m not complaining, it’s just I was so shocked a celebrity was centimeters away from me. You really can’t forget a person’s face, especially if you’ve repeatedly watched The Golden Mile three times on a television set and almost remember every scene his played in. Too my disappointed I didn’t get a selfie with him because I was too embarrassed to admit I loved watching him in Underbelly.
Is that Firass Dirani from Underbelly: The Golden Mile joining our table?
A glass of Catching Thieves Semillion Sauvignon Blanc
Happy waitress at Meat District Co.
Grilling makes almost everything taste better, however the grilled artichoke ($7.50) wasn’t our thing. We had a bit of difficulty on chewing the layers of artichoke. I felt like my jaws was in the same motion of a camel chewing plants. Besides the texture I certainly enjoyed the fantastic open flamed flavour and saltiness from the sprinkles of sea salt and if you zoom in a bit closer with your eyes the gribiche sauce together is simply divine.
Grilled Artichoke ($7.50)
Hot days call for juicy grilled watermelon salad ($8.50) paired with fresh flavours of goat cheese, sumac and dusted off with hazelnut. These pizza slices of watermelon are great for more than just a quick toss on the barbie. Their texture changes and simply screams summer sweetness, making it a great starter for pretty much any backyard affair. This is one unique and fabulous elegant twist to a summer salad.
Grilled Watermelon Salad ($8.50)
Unexpected and a real summertime crowd-pleaser is the beet salad ($9.50)– This may be the new salad to eat this summer as it provides a roasting fruit caramel flavour. I was impressed by the intensely flavoured thinly sliced roasted apples as well as the goat curd, radish, watercrest and walnut pesto. Whoever thought of roasted apples in a salad is a GENIUS. I was looking at this dish as if it was whipped cream on jello if you know what I mean. Hehehe *Wink Wink*
Beet Salad ($9.50)
I suggest you should make your body useful to the cured meat platter ($34 for 4 people)– The pungent smell of the generous selection of premium cured meats, olives and a smudge of creamy Greek skordalia is a stunner on a large wooden board. This plate knew how to lure me in so that my eyes, and inevitably my belly can feast on the slices of salty treats and be accompanied by the sweetness of fresh red grapes . It’s hands-down that I believe every table should have one! I was guilty of almost eating this entire board alone.
Cured Meat Platter ($34)
This charcuterie plate is a great trick to have up your sleeve MDC! It was a delicious way to start a meal and one of the great things about this board is it comes with triangle shaped olive bread, lavosh and grisini.
Now that’s a good selection of premium cold cuts.
Love the printed designs on the walls!
What a view whilst eating at Meat District Co.!
Don’t get chopped by this butcher knife shaped menu.
When Meat District Co. is so close to the water in Sydney, it’s essential to have a colourful display of cocktails/mocktails menu for the ladies. The chill out charm mocktail ($10) looked like a rockstar that attempted one lady on our table to order. With fresh and fruity mix of orange juice, strawberry purée, fresh lime and mango purée it makes sense why one would order this. Served on a tall glass and garnished with fresh slices of strawberries and orange it’s a real classic mocktail treat.
Chill Out Charm mocktail ($10)
After a full day of slicing fruits on “Fruit Ninja” I get hit by fruit ninja combo cocktail ($10)– This absolutely delicious refreshing fruity drink is perfect to serve those who are addicted to slicing fruits on their iPhones, but must be over 18+ to get a taste of this. Sweet with subtle fruity hints of mixed Passoa and Malibu strengthened up with Smirnoff Vodka, finished with pineapple juice, passionfruit and dash of raspberry cordial it’s no wonder this gets people shaking their hips.
Fruit Ninja Combo cocktail ($10)
The crispy battered onion rings w. truffle aioli ($7.50) was driving me mental as the batter puffed up around the sliced onion ring was so well made that they are the most scrumptous things to eat. I couldn’t resist crunching on one ring as they were very crispy and didn’t show evidence of being too oily. They certainly were well seasoned and the outside layer was divine! And about that truffle aioli it enhanced the flavours a lot with the added garlic flavour.
Crispy Battered Onion Rings w. Truffle Aioli ($7.50)
“Cause if you liked it, then you should put a ring on it!”
By now I was high on eating a lot of starter dishes and the sweet summer corn ($7.50) was added to that list too. It’s crazy how this corn can be dressed with chilli flakes, lime juice and truffle parmesan. You can really enjoy this tasty juicy corn alone but I do encourage you to share at least one chopped slice because the melted cheese is quite filling.
Sweet Summer Corn ($7.50)
Now if you ladies are going to leave the boys at home then I highly recommend ordering the brie burger ($14). The surprise knockout about this burger is the MDC beef patty with double cream brie, cranberry sauce, radish, rocket and horseradish mayo. The burger hits the spot of every ingredient and you must test the firmness of the bun. The added brie and cranberries does do a lovely combination of flavours and textures and you can easily be obsessed with this burger one the first go.
Brie Burger ($14)
I tried getting the 250g sirloin ($29) some alone time with me as it was crazy smokey that got me a little insane, but totes had fun eating it. This steak did not disappoint and I must confess it was beyond what I imagined. It almost headed to the direction of being wagyu in texture, but just missed it by a bit. It was slightly on the chewy side, but easily managed to melt after a few rounds of working my jaws. Served with red wine gravy I seriously think you are better off having this steak on its own so that you are able to concentrate those smokey flavours.
250g Sirloin ($29)
This may be the biggest hunk of steak I have ever tastiest for while and the smell of smokey meat had the table sniffing the air and continually drooling whilst I cut the steak into thick slices.
That medium rare smokey steak
My last name must be Robbins because the lamb hook ($31) rocked my world when it arrived at our table. I was so upset I didn’t order this signature meat on a skewer dish, but was lucky enough to see it to believe it was on a hook. I may of snuck my fork to grab a few pieces of lamb when the person who ordered it wasn’t looking. This is absolutely a winner dish, especially when the lamb was well marinated and insanely tasty with that smoky sweet flavour explosion and yeah it was juicy alright. Meat District Co. should be proud of introducing this unique dish, it will seriously get you hooked! This lamb was just the right amount for one person as it also comes with fries or a side garden salad.
Lamb Hook ($31)
Pretty impressed how fast this lamb hook arrives at our table considering the flavours are so in depth. It’s like the sauce was glued to the lamb for years! I’ll definitely be back for you little lamb.
Hooked on a feeling…Teehehe
There’s two levels at Meat District Co.
Oh my! Super popular meal of the day was desserts and what do we have here…something healthy for the BIG kids was the fruit platter that includes white chocolate ice-cream, blood orange sorbet and banana gelato with freshly cut rockmelon, orange and handful of grapes.
Fruit Platter
Moving on and we were covered with caramel tart that contains MDC’s caramel filling, salted caramel popcorn, crushed peanuts and banana gelato. This precious tart was a tad too sweet and my attempt to demolish it well…I failed you my readers. I’m sorry, but after eating half the tart I wasn’t too keen to continue as it made my tastebuds feel more dehydrated. I did end up finishing the entire scoop of the banana gelato as it tasted hectic.
Caramel Tart
I’m not a couples counsellor but I seemed very happy to be with the cookie & cream cheesecake as it had white chocolate ganache, chocolate soil and white chocolate gelato. The cheesecake sits in my HAVE TO EAT AGAIN category as it was just perfect. It wasn’t at all overly sweet and I gamely continued to eat this whole slice of cake till my very last spoonful even though my food baby bump was showing.
Cookie & Cream Cheesecake
Let’s face it, when you’re at a pretty restaurant and welcoming ambiance, you’re probably thinking “Jeez my wallet is going to be sore today” or “The food wasn’t that great…for that price“, well not at Meat District Co.. This restaurant knows how to satisfy Sydney’s hungry stomachs at a really REASONABLE AND AFFORDABLE PRICE and still manage to serve high quality food. You’d have nightmares if you haven’t visited this place and compare other restaurants that serve up similar burgers and ribs. Trust me you will NOT REGRET visiting Meat District Co.! I promise you’d be MIND BLOWN by their cheap cocktails, <$10 starters, their epic sirloin AND their effing burgers. I’ll definitely be needing a V.I.P card from Meat District Co. because this place is now listed as Nessy Eater’s chillaxed regular hang outs.
Disclaimer: Nessy Eater attended Meat District Co. launch (opportunity provided by Polkadot PR). Opinions are however, Nessy Eater’s own.
Photos by Vanny Tang
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