Basking in the golden late afternoon summer sun we meandered through the pristine gardens in Woollahra’s Chiswick past the fountain and into the famous venue. What greeted us (as well as the kind smiling staff and dinner guests) was a sensory spread fit for a king.
The collaboration between The Botanist and Chiswick was indeed a sight to behold. The roof was covered in plants and botanicals to match the impeccably decorated tables and we were immediately smitten with the ‘Secret Garden’ theme of the evening.
With perfectly manicured garden views and dappled sunlit tables spread with fruit, herbs and flower arrangements we were asked to create our own drink with expert cocktail extraordinaire – Josh O’Brien. He talked us though the incredible Botanist gin and had us choose (or ‘forage’ if you will) complimentary garnishes from the fresh produce that lay around us on the lush efflorescent tables.
Whilst sipping on our incredible cocktails and enjoying the immersive spread that lay before us we learnt from Josh that “Botanist is an artisanal Islay gin made by Bruichladdich Distillery. It is one of two gins made on Islay and is distinctive for its addition to the nine customary gin aromatics of a further 22 locally foraged wild Islay botanicals.” The sleek bottle itself actually has the 22 local botanicals from Islay embossed in glass on the surface and when playfully quizzed Josh easily quoted back what each was and what it added to the delicious gin.
We were then treated to an incredible Chiswick dining experience that the talented team are famous for. The dishes perfectly complimented the Botanist gin and had us all exclaiming “oh this is incredible” more times than we should mention (but here we are and no regrets). From gin infused oysters, to perfect tomato and peach salads, to juicy falls-off-the-bone meats cooked to perfection…. *drool*
Chiswick : 65 Ocean Street, Woollahra
Lunch
Monday to Thursday – 12.00 pm – 2.30 pm
Friday to Saturday – 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Sunday – All Day 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Public Holiday opening hours – 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Dinner
Monday to Friday – 6.00 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday – 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Sunday – all day 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Public Holiday opening hours – 6:00pm – 9:00pm