Rambutan

A restaurant is only as good as their staff. Restaurateur Joe Natale has a great team, and is clearly proud of their skills. My most recent visit was as much about drinking as it was about eating, so we sat in the comfortable, low-lit lounge at our choice of long fabric banquettes, padded stools or comfortable ottomans at low or raised tables. Bar Manager Ryan Gardam (creator of Café Pacifico’s lovely Vanilla Mojito) produces interesting cocktails. Be sure to order (and observe) his Gooseberry and Spiced Honey Martini with flaming ‘Kung Fu School’ Green Bitters ($16). Head Chef Mai Busayarat has put together a great selection of tapas style dishes to complement the wine list, including the house speciality of Tea Smoked Quail ($16). The Miang of Smoked Trout and Eggplant ($4) is a palate explosion; while the Pla Dib of Kingfish and Salmon with Lemongrass and Kaffir Lime Nahm Jim ($16) is both delicate and bright. Both were well matched by vibrant actor/server Abby Earl’s suggestion of a 2007 Aja ($9/glass, $42/bottle), a white blend from the Hunter Valley that proved quite a nice drop. To aid your wine list exploration, get a plate of the tapioca floured Salt and Pepper Squid ($16) with lemon dipping sauce.

Rambutan
96 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst
Ph: (02) 9360 7772
Thai $$-$$$