Herne Bay Brunch Staple The Governor is Now Open After-Hours

The food scene of Jervois Rd has seen a resurgence of late. Jervois Steak House updated their longstanding menu, fine-dining restaurant Vinnies has been transformed into a French-style bistro, and now thanks to an extended liquor license, Herne Bay brunch staple The Governor has entered the dinner market.

Running with a European bistro theme, the restaurant's after dark service begins with a complimentary sample of Italian parmigiano reggiano, scraped from a gargantuan wheel upon the counter. The menu welcomes smaller sharing plates including warm olives with whipped feta and sourdough ($8), smoked brandade on toast with grilled octopus salsa ($12), chicken liver parfait with port jelly, poached grapes and lavosh ($16).

Generously portioned larger plates include cockles with prawns and a salty bacon broth ($18), roasted half chicken with baby carrots, garlic, dijonaise, gremolata ($29), and the incredibly rich beef short rib with celeriac puree and charred brussels sprouts ($29) - an incredibly comforting dish that makes you want to lie back on the restaurant's plump cushions and sink into a food coma.

Finishing touches include a chocolate tart ganache with shortbread, hokey pokey and poached mandarin, butterscotch pot de creme with cacao and coconut, and a blue cheese honey cake with date and pecan. Add in a concise wine list and charming service and The Governor has all the makings of a slick night spot.

The Governor is now in operation from 4pm until 10pm, Tuesday to Saturday.