Hummingbird *UPDATED*
Ultimo doesn’t have a vast amount of modern Australian dining options, which makes chef Gavin Tuckwell’s new ‘tapoz’ (think tapas crossed with tasting plate) menu here all the more welcome. Since the serves are slightly bigger than tapas, I’d suggest about three or four dishes between two people. The Tomato Crab Bisque ($10) wasn’t well designed for sharing, but it impressed none the less. The large Garlic Bruschetta ($8) was a tad ungainly to eat, but the fresh tomato and olive salsa was lively and enjoyable. Vegetarian diners find options like the Grilled Haloumi ($12) served with a mild chickpea, mint, chilli, carrot and coriander salad; while carnivores are tempted with dishes like a Crispy Skin Confit Duck ($18) with a cherry jus and a lovely potato fondant. For dessert I’d skip the Baileys Crème Brûlée ($10) – the added booze changed the custard’s texture too much – and head straight for the Sticky Date Pudding ($10) topped with gooey caramel. New manager Mark Kennedy has ditched the cocktails in favour of wine. The small list offers most wines by the glass too; and there are a number of winners including a Pemberton gem ‘ the 2005 Fonty’s Pool Pinot Noir ($44/bottle, $9.50/glass) – and the 2008 Domaine Chandon Sauvignon Blanc ($42/bottle, $9/glass).
Hummingbird
500 Wattle Street, Ultimo
Ph: (02) 9211 9260
Modern Australian Tapas $$$
