Balcony

A sensitive refit of the Kings Cross Hotel sees the building restored to its former glory, sans the green paint. Experience the sexy rooftop bar, loads of diverse outdoor (smoking) areas and watch the world go by on the great wind-protected balcony with a commanding vista (including a peek into the Fitness First aerobics classes). James Yu leads an effective kitchen which manages dining throughout the hotel. It’s gastro-pub fare with fine dining touches like a pleasant amuse-bouche of Potato, Leek and Truffle Oil Soup. Coffin Bay Oysters ($3.50/each) are a good start but the moist, flavoursome Crispy Skinned Duck Breast ($16) is even better. Most entrees are easily shared, including the Seared Sea Scallops ($16), innovatively served with baby turnips and pork belly. My pick of the mains is the 250g Roasted Grain Fed Beef Eye Fillet ($32) perched on a bed of truffled Paris mash with forest mushrooms – notable for the good quality beef. A Pumpkin and Wild Rocket Salad ($12) with Gippsland Blue Cheese and Fuji apple is also memorable. Milky Bar fans will adore the White Chocolate Panna Cotta ($12). Not so soothing was the Green Tea Ice Cream ($12) – on the evening I dined it had more tannins than a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Balcony
First Floor, Kings Cross Hotel, 248 William Street, Kings Cross
Ph: (02) 9331 9900
Modern Australian $$$-$$$$