Sunday 16 June 2013

WTC Wharf - Progressive dinner

Located on Siddeley Street, nestled on the city-side banks of the Yarra River and adjacent to Crown Casino and South Wharf, WTC Wharf is fast becoming one of Melbourne's most exciting new precincts. We arrived at 6.30 pm for our progressive dinner - entree, main and dessert at 3 different restaurants!
The Yarra river waterfront provided a stylish backdrop for our foodie tour around 3 of WTC Wharf's restaurants - The Wharf Hotel, Byblos and Kobe Jones. The 3 restaurants are distinctly different - showcasing WTC Wharf's dining ability to tempt with a wide array of tastes.

The Wharf Hotel
Location: WTC Wharf, World Trade Centre 18-38 Siddeley Street, Melbourne
Phone: 03 8680 6000
Link: http://www.wharfhotel.com.au/
Cuisine: Modern Australian, Pub/Bar Food, Wine Bar
The Wharf Hotel on Urbanspoon
Our journey began at The Wharf Hotel. We were greeted warmly and seated at a cosy booth. 
The Wharf Hotel is a unique combination of a friendly local pub with a waterfront restaurant featuring stunning river views. Their wine list is a particular highlight, incorporating wines from 12 of Australia’s most famous wine producers. 
The interior draws influence from its maritime roots and the walls are adorned with images of early life in Melbourne and historical artefacts. The Wharf Hotel is a great dining (and drinking) destination that is infused with Melbourne history. 
Entree Platter
Five spice crispy calamari, chilli, coriander, shao tsing dressing Saganaki & carrot fritter, spicy yogurt Terrine of smoked pork hock & pistachio, rhubarb compote, pickles, house bread 

The entree platter at The Wharf Hotel was expertly crafted to celebrate the best of Victoria’s local and seasonal produce. There is a clear modern Australian influence on the food which is simple yet elegant.

Byblos
Location: WTC Wharf, World Trade Centre 18-32 Siddeley Street, Melbourne
Phone: 03 9614 6400
Link: http://www.byblosbar.com.au/melbourne/
Cuisine: Tapas, Wine Bar, Mediterranean
Byblos on Urbanspoon
A short stroll along the boardwalk and we were at Byblos. 
Featuring modern Mediterranean meets Lebanese cuisine, Byblos Restaurant was a feast for the eyes and tastebuds. 
Mixed Grill Mains 
Your choice of four items from the Byblos Grill (we chose Lahim Meshwi, Shish Tawook, Kafta Meshwi and Samak Meshwi) served with hommos, tabouleh, vegetarian skewer and garlic sauce.  
Moghrabieh
A rustic staple of Lebanon, this combination of Lebanese style couscous and chick peas is slow cooked with onion and is mixed with pieces of lamb fillet and a tradition gravy, Finished with marinaded chicken tenderloin pieces. 
The Samak Harra, grilled fresh John Dory was a particular stand out. We loved the generous use of beautiful spices. Without exception, all of the meat in both dishes was cooked to absolute perfection.

Kobe Jones and Riverside Teppanyaki
Location: WTC Wharf, World Trade Centre G1638 Siddeley Street, Melbourne
Phone: 03 9329 9173
Link: http://www.kobejones.com.au/melbourne
Cuisine: Japanese, Sushi, Vegetarian
 Kobe Jones on Urbanspoon Riverside Teppanyaki by Kobe Jones on Urbanspoon
Our final destination was Kobe Jones and Riverside Teppanyaki. 
We were seated at the teppanyaki dining area (which features the newest and largest teppanyaki table in Australia). 
Be warned, the cocktail menu is incredibly tempting. After much deliberation, we settled on the Kaitiki Dream and the Ko Ko Nut. 
Kaitiki Dream 
a HOT cocktail that is sure to warm you up on cold Melbourne nights – vanilla vodka, brandy, Frangellico and spiced coconut milk 
The Ko Ko Nut 
a coconut lover’s dream, with Malibu, ginger liqueur, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup and a few other Kobe secrets 
Both cocktails were simply magnificent. We both agreed that he Ko Ko Nut was the best cocktail we have ever had. It was decadently creamy with an absolutely harmonious but complex blend of flavours - it was liquid indulgence at its best. 
Our progressive dinner ended on a fiery note with a delicious Crepe suzette which had been spectacularly flambéd with Grand Marnier in front of us. It was exciting to watch the chef’s cooking skills on display as he expertly prepared our dessert. 
Crepe Suzette 
Freshly made on the teppan, Sapporo beer crepe flambéed with Grand Marnier, then glazed with orange caramel sauce and served with French Vanilla bean ice cream

The crepes were beautifully thin and had the perfect level of sweetness, courtesy of the luxurious grand marnier sauce. 
Enjoy an assortment of international cuisines and delectable dishes with 3 courses from 3 different restaurants each Wednesday night at WTC Wharf for just $55 per diner. 

What: WTC Wharf Progressive Dinner 
When: every Wednesday night 
Time: 6.30pm and 7.30pm sittings 
Tickets: $55 per person 
Bookings: 03 9629 9228 or email laura@wtcmelbourne.com.au

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of WTC Wharf.

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