Darlinghurst’s favourite date night venue has had a revamp that’s bringing the sexy back into vintage.
For ten years The Victoria Room has done vintage to a tee. It’s the spot for late night cocktails in a cosy corner. That hasn’t changed, but the slightly chintz feel and the tasselled lamp shades you might find at your grandmother’s place are gone.
Now The Victoria Room is all grown up. There are brand new Art Deco chandeliers and zebra print booths with a colonial feel. The deep blue colour scheme extends to wing back velvet lounges, floor to ceiling drapes and plush, monogrammed V R pillows.
This is no longer the ultimate spot for a vintage girl, it’s for gentlemen too. The vibe is Great Gatsby, without the frenetic pace.
Don’t expect to be in and out in half an hour – the service is excellent but the tapas-style dishes are paced to give you time to enjoy your meal. New chef Samuel Cheetham’s menu is still designed for sharing.
Highlights are a board of heirloom carrots and organic radishes, a moreish cauliflower and capsicum number that will have everyone eating their vegetables, and some seriously sophisticated mashed potatoes, served with chives, pickles and potato skins. The servings are generous so you won’t go hungry with the spiced lamb loin or a tender free range chicken.
If you’re just after a drink, the cocktails are as good as they were – the drinks are new but the style is the same, some served in heavy crystal carafes, others in dainty sherry glasses.
Even at the bar, there’s room for dessert – donuts are served with a bowl of jam and Chantilly creamed that a very attentive South American waiter tells us he likes to eat with his hands so he can roll the donut in the sauce. We try it and agree, it’s a little bit naughty but very, very nice.
The Victoria Room
Level 1, 235 Victoria St
Darlinghurst
Sydney
