Since 2018, chef Tristan Rosier has been quietly trying to define what Australian cuisine actually is. He’s been doing this at his Bourke Street restaurant, Arthur, which he co-owns with his partner, Rebecca Fanning (the duo are also behind the charming-as-hell Jane and The Shire’s cheery Italian diner, Fior).
His finesse and skills – some of which were honed working alongside Peter Doyle at the award-winning Est – as well as his passion for beautiful, seasonal Australian produce, come to fruition at the Burgundy-coloured Victorian-era terrace, with sublime results. It’s a set-menu-only restaurant, and the dishes, created by Rosier alongside head chef Juwon Gwak (ex-Mr Wong and Ms G’s), are made using only local ingredients. It’s not just the food that’s Aussie – you can also opt to pair your meal with Australian drops curated by in-house sommelier Henry Quinn. So, you can dine and drink well while supporting our talented farmers and producers.
View this post on Instagram
And while the menu is always evolving, you may taste dishes like kangaroo tartare with pickled kohlrabi and caramelised onions; Moreton Bay bug with spigarello and pepperberry; abalone with wild mushrooms and fermented cabbage (with the option to add Blue Mountains black truffles, and we reckon you should); and white chocolate with hazelnut and wattleseed.
Warm, intimate and cosy, the handsome dining room features an earthy colour palette, textured walls and a marble bar. It’s the kind of place to linger with a close friend over a cup-filling conversation or visit for a special night with your partner.
Time Out recently dined at Arthur and concluded that a meal here feels less like a pursuit of answers and more like a celebration of what we have in our very own backyard. And it feels good – and tastes even better.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.