Fish Lane Bistro

Overview

Fish Lane Bistro occupies the old Meatball Company space in The Fox Hotel. While much remains the same — the black chevron benches, red plaid tables and graffiti covered ceilings — you'll be hard pressed to find any meatballs. These days the space is full of quality pub fare at a decent price. Satisfying gourmands and the straight-up hungry, Fish Lane Bistro delivers mains for under $30. And, though it may not win any awards, it will keep you, your stepmother, neighbour and colleagues happy as Larry.

We recommend you kick things off with the twice-baked manchego cheese soufflé entree ($16). Fluffy as a cloud, and comparable to a savoury cheesecake in texture, the dish is balanced with sweet pear, balsamic figs and walnuts. But, if cheese ain't your thing, the salmon tartare with cucumber salad ($17) may be up your alley.

Mains wise, I can never walk past lamb and, fortunately the lamb rump with charred broccolini and spiced labnah ($29) goes down a treat. If lamb isn't your cup of tea, the sticky wagyu short rib with a mountain of leafy greens ($30) is tender and filling and rivals others elsewhere.

For those with hearty appetites, we recommend you add a side or two to your main. Choices range from hand-cut duck fat chips or steamed greens, to spiced cauliflower with chickpeas, cranberries and coriander yogurt or haloumi with sweet corn, pearl couscous and lemon. Then, of course, round it all out with Fish Lane's signature espresso martini with salted caramel and shortbread ($16).

Located close to the Cultural Centre, Fish Lane Bistro makes for a perfect pre-show meal and even has a menu to accommodate theatre-goers with two courses for $40.