Review: Northbridge Bistro

Hi again - its been quite a week in our culinary world. We came across a lovely establishment this week that we recommend trying out. Our photos didn't turn out the best, but don't let that deter you from the Northbridge Bistro ...

From the outside, Northbridge seems to have a very placid food scene compared to it's relatively lively surrounding suburbs such as Cremorne and Castlecrag. It would be a crime not to mention Northbridge food and the fantastic Tokyo Mart supermarket in the same sentence and while there are places here and there to grab a bite, no one restaurant seems to make a big splash. No restaurant except the Northbridge Bistro that is. This Mod-Aus gem targets itself at a more refined level of diners and distinguishes itself as one of the classiest places to eat on the North Shore. Though the food comes at a cost some might not like paying, we thought it was a price well worth paying. We'll pass on other's advice and recommend reservations though business seemed fairly quiet when we were there so we were able to show without reservations. But we have been told by other diners that tables tend to fill up quickly.




Beware that the Northbridge Bistro sits in deceptive surroundings. It shares the building of the Northbridge Lounge which immediately gives off the air of a low key - thongs and jeans affair. After making our way through the casual smoking area of the bar, we were surprised as a hidden vista of tastefully decorated furniture and class opened before us. If you've ever been to Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point, it should be immediately clear where the Northbridge Bistro takes it's aesthetic inspiration from. Which is certainly not a bad thing. The darkwood tables and lovely polished floorboards contrasted elegantly with the neatly laid out candles, napkins, cutlery and salt and pepper dishes. Its similar to Fratelli but the colours are lighter so it has a bit more of a homely feel. A mirror with the daily specials dominated one wall and gave the dining area a larger feel.




Not that it was not a big enough to begin with. Inside there was probably room for more than 60 people (we roughly estimate) and a respectably sized al-fresco area gave an option for those not wanting to soak up the atmosphere inside. We cannot comment on how it is like when it is filled to capacity, but when we dined there were more than enough staff to attend to us. The service was professional, friendly and fairly quick. It was a tad weird having the rather extensive specials list read to us (especially since we sat right under it) but no biggie. We ordered only mains and sides, which we waited maybe 20 minutes for, so things aren't overly snappy but they were far from slow.

But the wait was certainly worth it. Unfortunately the lighting didn't lend itself well to good photos, but take our word that the dishes looked an tasted great. Laura's Penne with Chorizo Ragout and Vegetables was delicious. The flavours were well balanced and the portion size was very generous. Being a large dish and also the cheapest main (at $17) it seems to be the value pick. Toward the bottom of the bowl it did become apparent that it was a little oilier than some may prefer.




Rob got himself one of the daily specials. A Veal Rump with Roasted Parsnips, Baby Carrots, Creamy Mash and Veal Jus. It was as palatable as it sounds and came artfully presented with the parsnips and carrot resting like a tent above the mash and veal slices. It was worth the $27 price tag and we wouldn't think twice about recommending it to anyone who sees it on the specials board. A generous side serving of Roasted Potatoes Seasoned with Tarragon which we finished, but barely. Both of us left full and satiated. As mentioned earlier, we didn't order any entrees but they looked fantastic. At $15 they weren't cheap but I'm sure we'll get back there soon to try items such as the homemade duck pate.




We recommend the Northbridge Bistro for those wanting a lovely Mod-Aus meal in an equally lovely setting. It's a more expensive way to eat out, but one well worth your while trying. Especially recommended for larger groups.


What we ate:

Roast Potatoes with Tarragon ($6)
Penne with Chorizo Ragout ($17)
Veal Rump with Roasted Parnsips, Baby Carrots, Creamy Mash and Veal Jus ($27)


Northbridge Bistro:

57 Strathallen Ave,
Northbridge, NSW, 2063
+ 61 2 9958 5228


Related Links:

Northbridge Bistro on Eatability

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