Overview
A powerhouse duo of the Sydney dining scene, ARIA's Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan (collectively, MorSul), are expanding their restaurant empire. They're opening a second Chiswick, this weekend at the Art Gallery of NSW.
Despite the lure of good food, Chiswick's original outpost was, for most, a drag to get to, being situated in the depths of sleepy Woollahra. Now, with the convenience of the city location, Chiswick at the Gallery promises visitors a luxurious bite to eat post-exhibition and a cultured lunch option for CBD workers.
"It's a real privilege to be gifted this great canvas," says Moran. "We will work hard to ensure Chiswick at the Gallery complements the rich art experience the Gallery delivers to Sydneysiders and visitors."
The 125-seat dining space will follow in the steps of its sister restaurant, featuring a menu driven by Moran's passion for sourcing the best seasonal produce from around the state. Head chef Laura Baratto has dreamt up a menu of spring hits, including roast chicken with cos, sugar snaps and lemon; lamb shoulder (from Moran's farm) with smoked eggplant and mint salsa; and desserts like watermelon, strawberries and strawberry ice cream.
Along with the dishes on offer, sommelier Matt Dunne has devised a drinks list consisting of old and new world wines (with 20 by the glass), a curated list of cocktails, and Chiswick's specialty sodas infused with fresh herbs and fruit syrup.
In the restaurant, diners will have a choice between sitting at the bar or at the communal table. The restaurant interior is imbued with the best of the Woollahra location, with streams of natural light, custom-made rugs over the floorboards, and smooth wood finishes.
For all of you screaming, "what about brunch?", well, your calls have been answered; weekend brunches will kick off later in the year.
Chiswick at the Gallery will launch on Saturday, October 25. It will be open for lunch seven days a week from noon - 3.30pm and for dinner on Wednesdays until 9pm, when the gallery hosts Art After Hours. MorSul also run the gallery's more casual eatery, Cafe at the Gallery.