O’Connell Street Bistro is the Metro Peugeot Restaurant of the Year 2019 Best Wine winner. To see a full rundown of all our winners, click here.
OCB is two smallish rooms just off O’Connell St, one with a bar and one with just 12 tables. It feels discreet – almost clubby. You get the sense that deals are both made and celebrated here; there’s a sniff of influence – real, as opposed to the social media kind – and yet it welcomes all comers. There is always steak tartare, which the chef recommends spicy and which comes with house-made crisps, but recently there was also a main of roasted duck breast, served on the rarer side of medium, with pickled apricots, parsnip puree, goats’ cheese and black garlic. Service is polished and deferential without being obsequious. Wine is a highlight: the cellar is impressive; the delivery impeccable (and freehand) without being pretentious. A pinot gris with steak tartare? Okay! They carefully drape your pressed white linen napkin across your lap, and when you return from the bathroom it’s been neatly folded, even though no one at the table can remember when they did it. A city classic.
Awards
Winner, Best Wine
Finalist, Peugeot People’s Choice Award for Best Dish
Finalist, Best Service
What it offers: À la carte / Dégustation / Outdoor dining / Takes large groups / Private room / Bar
A favourite dish: Kingfish ceviche, papaya, coconut and Thai dressing
Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner Mon-Sat
Bookings: Yes
Price: $$$
Chef: Mark Southon
Central City
3 O’Connell St
Ph 377-1884
oconnellstbistro.com
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