What kind of ‘mode’ have you been in lately? Do you feel l like you need a getaway, to have an experience more than simply a holiday? If so, come on down to a new “Celebrate Australia” by Mode Kitchen and Bar. The series commences with South Australia and continues with regional menu takeovers every six months showcasing artisan Australia producers.
Mode’s head Chef Francesco Mannelli (ex Bistrode and Est) grew up in the hills of Florence making his own wine and olive oil, similar to the South Australian region which resembles the climate he is familiar with. Francesco is famed for using seasonal star ingredients, having worked with icons Peter Doyle and Jeremy Strode. The dining room and bar, formerly the well Pei Modern, has an art deco riff with warm colours, moulded glass and an open kitchen so you can spy on the action without the need of binoculars.
Your pre-dinner experience may begin at the bar with a refreshing deep purple gin cocktail made with Kangaroo Island Mulberry Wild Gin with lemon myrtle. Seafood starters from Clean Seas Seafoods include hiramasa kingfish sashimi dressed in sweet and sour jus with macadamias, it’s delicious with a glass of 2009 Wilson Vineyard Riesling. One of the signature dishes is the Coffin Bay octopus, cooked in a prized woodfire oven delivering texture and smokiness. If you are known for scanning the menu and going straight for the steak, then the Mayura Station Wagyu Tri Tip MB 9+ with a glass of 2017 Torbreck Shiraz & Roussanne, is your go to. Finish with Woodside Cheese Wrights range that features blends of goats, cow and sheep milks, dusted or created with Australian ingredients such as saltbush. If you are into your protein shakes, give it all up – simply add an ant, two or three to your cheese and go the way nature really intended.
It’s a classy menu that curates the current best-of Australian producers, it’s likely you’ll be back when Tasmania follows in six months, and again next year as the regional spotlights roll on. Kudos to the team that is bringing us the ‘al a mode’ of the season and access to it so easily, right here, right now.
Mode Kitchen & Bar at the Four Seasons
Ground Floor/199 George St, Sydney NSW 2000,
Opening Hours – Open for lunch and dinner daily – 12.00pm – 10.00pm
http://modekitchenandbar.com.au/
