The Balmain Bug (CLOSED)
In its current form Balmain Bug has just celebrated their second birthday, but the building it is housed in has been around since 1856! After being everything from a watchmaker to a haberdashery, for the last 40 years the sandstone walls have housed a restaurant. Dine under the gaze of a bevy of curvy Norman Lindsay wenches, courtesy of an association with Fine Art Australia. The Australian focus of the art is also reflected in the wine list, which only features lesser known offerings from Australia and our neighbour across the ditch ‘ I enjoyed the 2002 Maiolo Pinot Noir from Margaret River, WA ($10.90/glass, $45.90/bottle). Owner/chef Paul Cookson offers his own pick of the menu in a 3 course Chef’s Menu ($89 with matched wine). There’s an element of pub bistro to the cuisine, which seems in places a tad dated, but I did enjoy the entrée of Seared Scallops with Prosciutto ($20). This is the quieter end of Balmain, so you’ll park easily, and for free. Alternatively, enjoy a lovely glass of 2005 Bright Water Riesling Ice Wine from Nelson, NZ ($14.90/glass, $56.90/375ml bottle) with dessert, then walk to the nearby ferry for a watery way home.
Balmain Bug
55 Darling Street, Balmain
Ph: (02) 9810 5510
Modern Australian $$$$
