Hidden within the regal QVB is Esquire, a stylish speakeasy hidden within the QVB. ESQ is the notoriously moodier younger sibling to Reign.
It’s a stunning venue with a serious nod to American Supper clubs popular during the 1930’s & 1940’s.
The food is as much a focus as the drinks at ESQ, with a broad and varied bar and a la carte menu.
The signature cocktail list is comprehensive, Sakura Blossom, Why Quay Quay Sour were strong standouts.
The beauty of ESQ is its ability to really tailor your dining experience. If you’re after a quick drink and snacks you can opt for a few items from the Bar menu.
We were wanting to sample a broad selection across both menus, starting with the Fried Potato $14 from the bar menu. Definitely, a must order, thinly sliced pieces of potato topped with fiery n’duja & cheddar cheese.
For those wanting something a little heartier without delving completely into the a la carte menu the Wagyu Cheeseburger $30 is a reliable option. Topped with Gruyere cheese, tomato, lettuce & house ketchup.
The Hiramasa Kingfish $29 with pops of citrus is a fresh and light option.
The Sugarloaf Cabbage $23 came highly recommended from the staff, with subtle smokey vinegar notes from the tosazu emulsion.
We were particularly enamoured by the Potato Gnocchi $34, with butternut pumpkin & brown butter. Wonderfully soft gnocchi with that winning combination of pumpkin & burnt butter. It’s a no brainer!
Another must-order, is the Pork Schnitzel ‘Holstein’ $42 w/ hen’s egg, white anchovy, caper & jus gras. The pork was super tender and the richness of this dish was offset by the lemon caper sauce.
The Carrot Cake w/ praline mouse, apricot centre & carrot sorbet $19 we quite enjoyed the cake element but found the carrot sorbet a little jarring.
There’s no better way to end a meal in my books than with chocolate. And the Dark Chocolate -w/ grapes, PX Sherry & raspberry sorbet $19 did not disappoint. A rich dark chocolate mousse offset by the tart raspberry sorbet.
ESQ is truly a gorgeous venue, whether it’s for a tipple, some snacks or a full menu there is something for everyone.
