The Botanist Kirribilli

Taking an atypical expedition to the north side of the harbour, I set out at dusk to observe a rare species: the Kirribilli wine bar. Rumoured to be the only one operating, I entered carefully, scoping the darkened layout under the cover of leaves, before proceeding to the only remaining table in the loudly buzzing room. The natives, it would seem, have adopted this bar rather wholeheartedly. Hiding in the field notes I observed that cocktails seemed the best way to blend in. Selecting the appropriately named ‘Yes Man’ ($16) resulted in an appetite-stimulating grapefruit sour, reinforced with Tanqueray gin. Buoyed by this success I indulged in a whole pitcher of Punch ($32) that cleverly balanced Frangelico with lots of lime, white rum, Cointreau and a ginger beer float. Lightening fast kitchen reflexes peppered me with an array of tapas eats, from Mahi Mahi Ceviche ($19) to golden Quesadillas ($18) made plump with chorizo, potato, spiced beans and cheese. With the genus ‘slider’ currently at plague proportions in Sydney, I do concede that King Crab Sliders ($20/4) with kohlrabi remoulade have something unique to offer. Curiously though, it was a side of Spicy Cauliflower Fritters ($13) that had me closest to planning a second expedition. Until next time, intrepid explorers…

The Botanist Kirribilli
17 Willoughby Street, Kirribilli
Ph: (02) 9954 4057 thebotanist.com.au
Bar, Cocktails, Bar Food $$$