March this year marked the first anniversary of the one and only French establishment on the Kensington Street dining precinct – Bistrot Gavroche.
Co-owned by Executive Chef Frederic Colin and sommelier Lionel Richard, Bistrot Gavroche was created with a single purpose in mind – to provide customers with the opportunity to experience the ambience, warmth and hospitality of a Parisian sojourn minus the costly plane ticket.
Housed in a beautiful old rum warehouse, the restaurant respects the historical structure of this timeless Sydney space while creating a traditional Parisian bistro atmosphere that’s unique to the city.
For the celebration of the anniversary a special “chef’s table” tasting event was launched to showcase traditional French dishes using the best Australian seafood paired with Pommery champagne.
Morton bay bug semi-cooked was served with leek vinaigrette and paired with Pommery Brut Royal NV. The acidity and sharpness in the pickled vegetable cut through the sweetness of the bug while the blend of a third each of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier in the pairing champagne delivered a creamy softness to the palate.
Crab thermidor and lobster bisque was unassuming in appearance but strong in seafood pungency. It was well balanced by the Pommery Summertime Blanc de Blanc, which displayed more white wine characteristics than champagne.
Ocean trout cooked in a rich creamy broth was accompanied by tender whole kipfler potatoes. A 2006 vintage Pommery Grand Cru completed the symphony on a high note.
Fig compote with ginger bread ice cream left you craving more when the tasting came to a conclusion. The menu was a pleasant reminder of the joys of French cuisine as well as the versatility of champagne.
One year in, Bistro Gavroche has achieved its purpose and spoilt Sydneysiders with classic French cuisine and ambience right here in the heart of the city.
Bistro Gavroche
1/2-10 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney NSW
Phone: (02) 9281 6668
Web: http://bistrotgavroche.com.au
