Zebra Lounge

With the Jones Bay edge of Pyrmont boasting better scenery, restaurants at the pointy end of Harris Street, looking onto Johnstons Bay, have had a rather hard slog. This doesn’t faze Owner Craig Jarman, who’s already developed a successful weekend brunch trade. He’s now determined to make night-time tapas work. If dishes like Pepper Crusted Eye Fillet with Pear and Raisin Relish ($18) and a bright, citrusy Scallop Salad ($18) are anything to go by, he’s in with a definite chance. Truth be told, his “passion is booze”, so with a team of fellow musicians like chef Eric Neira, he has rolled up his sleeves (revealing a full forearm tattoo of The Church, “the greatest band that ever lived”) and launched anew. Neira’s Chilean heritage adds interest on the plate, particularly in the appetite-inducing Ceviche ($15). Jarman’s contribution is a tight, well-priced list spanning from fruity Moa Wheat Lager ($10) (that’d also be a perfect recovery brunch companion) to a crisp, sweet locally produced Sydney Cider ($8) made only on “eating” apples. While all Jarman’s chosen wines are special, his favourite is the Innocent Bystander Pink Moscato ($38/bottle), perfect with Neira’s ephemeral Blueberry Souffle ($13), but doable in a pinch with his Zebra Chocolate Brownie ($13) too.

Zebra Lounge
1 Harris Street, Pyrmont
Ph: (02) 9571 5503 www.zebralounge.com.au
Tapas, Bar Food $$