The Shared Table: Paul Farag at Bannisters Pavilion

Overview

The weather might be a little cooler, but the coastal setting of Bannisters Pavilion in Mollymook still makes for a blissful escape. Yet this winter, an extra-special one-night dining collaboration is bound to tempt even the most dedicated homebody out into the evening air. On Saturday, July 18, acclaimed chef Paul Farag (AALIA) is taking over the hotel's Rooftop Bar & Grill for a modern Middle Eastern and North African feast.

Featuring four courses created just for the occasion, capped at 120 guests, the snack selection makes a stellar introduction, bringing sweet peppers with whipped feta and marjoram, and beef tartare with taro and pickled rhubarb. Then, the entrees include raw albacore with eggplant and spiced tomato; emmer pita; and chilled spinach with preserved lemon, nigella and shatta oil.

Image: Supplied

For shared mains, expect a lamb neck with fine herbs and isot pepper; burnt cabbage with confit garlic butter and garum; and salted cucumber with garlic oil and dill. Finally, dessert is an indulgent caramelised quince with brik pastry, completed by pistachio kaymak and brown butter whip. What's more, guests are greeted with a spiced pear spritz on arrival.

"I have a deep connection to the South Coast — my wife grew up there, and we have spent a lot of time in the region over the years," says Farag. "I have designed this takeover menu with generosity and flavour front of mind, and have really enjoyed putting a coastal twist on my usual style. It's playful, but still thoughtful and considered for the room."

Image: Supplied

Since leaving the ESCA Hospitality-run AALIA, Farag has taken his renowned cooking on the road, popping up at kitchens across the country. Now in Mollymook, this special menu has been created in collaboration with Bannisters Group executive chef Mitchell Turner, who worked closely to fuse their respective culinary styles.

"This is something we've been cooking up for some time, and we can't wait to welcome Paul to Bannisters," says Turner "It's a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience Paul's cooking in this relaxed coastal setting. This is something pretty different for The Rooftop Bar & Grill, and we're looking forward to bringing a fresh energy to the space."

Image: Jason Loucas.

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Top image: Jiwon Kim.