[invite] Bianca: It’s always a pleasure to stumble upon a small unassuming restaurant doing fantastic things. This was the case when we dined at House Bar & Bistrot, Potts Point. As a general rule I mostly avoid Italian restaurants because nothing is quite as good as Mum’s or the Nonni’s.
Owner and chef Mauro has cut his teeth in Sydney establishments, Fratelli Fresh and the Merivale group. Set across two Victorian-era terrace houses on Kellett Street, Potts Point. The best seats in the house are definitely on the front verandah, the inside is wonderfully cosy and kitsch, down to the freestanding bath…
The Dolianova ‘Arenada’ Monica hailing from Sardinia was the perfect accompaniment to our meal. Deep and full-bodied, it was far too easy to sip away whilst the rain pattered a few steps away from our table.
If you’re familiar with House Bar Bistrot at all, it’s most likely with the Pesto Injected Burrata -w/ dry tomatoes & olives $26. I don’t know if there is a better combination than that of pesto and burrata… The thin slivers of dried tomatoes were almost like thin discs of tomato candy, with an intensely rich concentrated tomato flavour.
You MUST order a serve of the Homemade Sourdough Bread $3. On it’s own or cleverly paired with the burrata. The foccacia was some of the best I’ve had. The texture and flavour, flawless.
Figs -w/ coppa, balsamic on sourdough $17 is a great little starter. There’s nowhere to hide and the quality of the ingredients really do shine through here.
Mauro selected the dishes for us to try and this was perhaps not something I’d normally order. Squid Ink Tagliolini -w/ king prawns, pumpkin and cherry tomatoes $29 was tasty despite my initial reservations. The homemade pasta was toothsome and served al dente. The prawns, plump with a slight sweetness. I enjoyed the flavour of the caramelised pumpkin.
And to finish. Black Angus Trip Tip -w/ Roast potatoes & caramelised onions $36. It’s not a cut you often come across but it was wonderfully cooked and melted in the mouth. I enjoyed the wholegrain mustard served alongside, providing a welcome dose of heat. And no-one is ever going to complain about crispy roast potatoes!
One to add to the list if you’re looking for a romantic date night spot.
Bianca
For Food’s Sake dined as guests of House Bar Bistrot.
