Postage stamp sized boutique hotel, thoroughly buffed and polished to a shine. Staff very friendly and welcoming. Kitschy, eclectic decor, and edgy, thoughtful artwork. Pieces by Enrique Rottenberg lined the walls leading to the bathrooms, and attentive scrutiny revealed the shiny silver eggs mounted on the fabric were in the hands of the gentlemen in the portraits.
28 seat dining room with a high ceiling, marble tables, linen napkins, not including the bar/lounge or outside terrace at the front. Cutlery and stemware of the highest quality. I would suggest the upholstered beige chairs unless you feel the need for a hard bistro seat. Cushions at least on the seat would be welcome. One intimate banquette under the “je t’aime/fragile” frame looks comfortable.
Great cocktail selections, nice wine list including some lovely Australian vintages.
A few vegetarian choices. The beetroot tacos are minuscule, and make the stainless steel rack look outsized. Delightfully presented, but bland. Order two just to start.
The goat curd churros sounded really interesting, but heavy. Share one order.
The pillows of delicious chive gnocchi were surrounded by lots of sweet peas, broccolini and radicchio, and topped with dots of melting cheese.
Two salads are on offer: mixed greens, or a lovely version of a Caesar in a green emulsion with pistachios.
Three desserts (available with matching cocktail), or a choice of cheeses with ample accompaniments.
All of the serving dishes evoke an artisan potter vibe, low bowls with a glaze, tall asymmetrical bowls for a dessert, rustic slab for cheese. Highlighted the food beautifully.
Noise level: Bistro loud, even half full. The bare wooden herringbone floors, marble and glass reflect sound.
The music was a mix of hits from soft rock and pop of the past 4 decades. Not intrusive, but the room deserves something more distinctive, a curated list of jazz, roaring 20s or French bistro tunes, maybe.
Service is finely polished. Staff is attentive and helpful. Always there to answer questions, or to refill a glass, or remove a plate, or slide cutlery for the next course.
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