Arthur Is Surry Hills' New Set Menu-Only Restaurant Inspired by Grandpa

Sit down to dinner at Arthur when it opens in Surry Hills later this month and you'll have some idea of how chef-owner Tristan Rosier best remembers his grandfather.

The original Arthur, with his love of getting friends and family together over food, was the main inspiration behind Rosier and partner Rebecca Fanning's 35-seat Bourke Street restaurant, which is slated to open its doors on Wednesday, October 24.

It marks the first solo venture for the chef (ex-Farmhouse and Dead Ringer), whose focus here is on using interesting, seasonal ingredients in unexpected ways, through dishes as elegant as they are exciting. As much as possible will be done in house from scratch, from the breads and preserves, to a raft of pickled things.

Food at Arthur is enjoyed as part of a $70 a head shared feast of around 11 set dishes — a move Rosier says is designed to allow punters space to really enjoy that good eating and company, rather than worrying about the whole decision-making and ordering affair. The menu will be an oft-changing one, though there'll always be at least one raw dish making an appearance and two desserts sweetening the finish.

While the starting lineup's being kept under wraps, you can expect plates like crumbed baby globe artichokes, roasted pork neck served alongside crackling and kohlrabi, and carrots elevated with mandarin and horseradish. And for dessert: a chocolate and mascarpone cake served with fresh cherries.

As for the wine offering, expect an Australian-heavy selection that trips across the country, showcasing "easy-to-drink wines with brightness, balance and crunch".

You'll find Arthur at 544 Bourke Street, Surry Hills, from Wednesday, October 24. It'll be open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday and lunch on weekends.

Images: Damian Flanagan