There has been a growing movement of late…bowls is cool. Bored by the artificial colourings of ten pin, we are going back to the earth with a new kind of (green) paddock to plate. This is the kind of bowls your Nanna loves and with good reason.
Until recently South Coogee bowls was not on the hipster radar; the tell-tale the carpets, the pokies, and with toilets from a time when lime tiles were on-trend. Whilst the bathrooms may for now remain in a time warp, Guru Projects has transformed the dining space into Bistro on the Greens. Your latest Eastern Beaches Hamptons hang out. The big reveal had locals crying and laughing, they just couldn’t believe their eyes – it’s a pretty sight.
Relax in your ‘home away from home’ in a huge space that’s so easy on the eye, think timber cladding ceilings, white wooden beams cascading with green ivy. The dining area is a mix of long group tables, white chairs and banquets have views onto a monster kitchen with a wood fired pizza oven. It’s the vision of La Piazza owners from Bankstown delivering confidence and warm Italian hospitality.
This is bistro food with with a touch of flair and generosity somehow lacking in so many dining spots. Kick off with four enticing arancini balls and tender calamari fritto complete with melting tendrils. Blanco pizza is a crowd pleaser thanks to San Danielle prosciutto showered with hand shaved chunks of Parmesan. Italian staples of Marinara pasta and a fillet of perfectly char grilled John Dory is accompanied with charming bowls of chips and salad.
You may have a “oh no I couldn’t possibly” moment when you are encouraged to order the blueberry cheesecake. Go for it. Made in house, it’s a knock out even a northern beaches stalwart might travel for.
Summer is just around the corner and this is the kind of experience worth gathering our friends for. Judging from the groups of footy players, there are many opportunities to make new ones! So skip your weekend breakkie of avo on toast and replace with bowling and a bistro which makes midday a new trend.
Bistro On the Greens
South Coogee Bowling Club Corner of Henning Ave & Moverly Road, South Coogee, NSW, 2034
www.bistroonthegreens.com.au
