Oldtown in Newtown II: Dinner -- or -- Everything Oldtown is Newtown again

Previously on F.S.I. Sydney: Breakfast at Oldtown in Newtown.

 

I'm on something of an Italian train of thought here. Train of eat, anyway. I accept none of the blame. It's wintry cold and these places right in my neighbourhood keep promising hot, meaty stews. So I'm heading back in. And this time I'm bringing backup.

Osteria di Russo & Russo, Enmore -- or -- The meaningful interpretation of Italian food

In which Detective Chow enjoys books and wine, records and fine foods. Note that the plates below are servings for 2 people: the Ultra Bene (6 course) option, where chef picks from the menu based on what's good that day.

Young Henry's at Blancmange -- or -- Inner West beer degustation dinner (a food cycle)

I am not an expert on beer. I have spent time 'tasting' and 'appreciating' other things like wine and chocolate and food in general. But I'm really only a beginner at beer. Truth be told, I only developed a taste for the stuff a few years ago in preparation for a trip to Europe and UK. 

I am, however, a stout local. And we now have our own brewery, Young Henrys. I saw a chance to drink their beer and eat fine food in my own jurisdiction. I took it.

This is that story.

Context: There is a musical called "The Last Five Years", which charts the course of a relationship. But, while we see his story from beginning to end, her side of the story is told from the end to the beginning.

Three Blue Ducks, Bronte -- or -- Dining, religiously

It's not often I can walk into a restaurant, look at the menu, and say "One of everything." And a bottle of wine. But, except for one entree (oysters), that's what I got to do at Three Blue Ducks.

Hartsyard, Newtown -- or -- Noisy neighbours

Hartsyard. There was a buzz about it even before it opened. Perhaps in part because of their own blog on the development phase? Whatever it was, bloggers and print media alike flocked.

Black Star Pastry truffle weekend -- or -- That time I dropped the $15 jar of truffle dessert

I am not, when it comes down to it, particularly punctual when it comes to filing F.S.I. reports. I had intended on one per week. Refined that to once a fortnight. For the past few months I have been especially slack. Eating yes, reporting no.

But, look. Black Star Pastry is doing a truffle weekend RIGHT NOW and if I'm quick about this and you're quick about this you can still get down there in time.

Stop reading. Go now!

Alright, so now that you're back and have truffle anglaise dripping down your chin, here's my report. (And a napkin.)

Pavilion Restaurant, Berry -- or -- Who's that Chef?

A couple of disclaimers for this report, Molly:
1. In the week before I visited Berry I was sick. Real sick. So my tastebuds were not at their peak.
2. My party of four received complimentary champagne, a shared entree, and dessert wine.

This story begins with me arriving for a nice, quiet 'recovery' dinner with friends...

Sardine Room, Potts Point -- or -- If you're good to Mama

Lots of restaurants closing. Lots opening up. So much pressure to go to the new ones. Be on trend. But... nah. Here's an oldie but a goodie.

 

Greek Special: Nostos, Leichhardt and Steki Taverna, Newtown

The Greek Financial situation means a lot of people there are doing it tough. In fact, a lot of countries' economies have been hit hard. Australians are comparatively doing well, but even here people are trying to cut back on spending. Like eating at restaurants.

Unfortunately rent is not getting any cheaper so a lot of restaurants are struggling. I think I should be supporting my favourite restaurants to make sure they stay afloat. Unfortunately I seem to be cursed, with a few places I really like closing (or selling) shortly after my reports were filed.

Still, there are bargains to be had if you want a cheap night out. Here are two:

Wine Library, Woollahra -- or -- Browsing in the Decadent section

This visit to the Wine Library was at the end of March, so you probably can't get the fig salad anymore, but the rest are very compatible with the colder weather coming up.

Fish & Co, Annandale -- or -- I can't believe it's not fish puns

Sometimes a man has too much respect to resort to pun-making. It's not that I respect you, Molly, or even myself. Goodness no! But when you write about a sustainable seafood restaurant (which is, let's admit it, swimming against the tide fairly niche) it is very very difficult not to get taken in hook line and sinker completely. Oh well. There are plenty of fish in the sea other opportunities.