Celebrated for its stunning sunsets, chill-out music compilations and cocktails, Café del Mar has finally opened a franchise down under. Cockle Bay Wharf is the gorgeous backdrop for Sydney’s take on arguably the most famous bar in the world. Having opened in late 2013 everyone is talking about the ideal location, international DJs, Sunday sessions and sophisticated menu.
Squint your eyes and you could almost imagine yourself beachside in Ibiza listening to deep house music. Then sit back and order a pitcher of Rojo Dos sangria, a mix of Tanqueray 10 gin, Westend Tempranillo, strawberry-balsamic reduction, basil and soda.
Head Chef Ben Fitton (ex Coast restaurant) has designed a Mediterranean style menu paying homage to Cafe Del Mar’s Spanish heritage. The food and drink offering may be a little more refined than Ibiza but it too has water views. With the harbour in sight, try some of the seafood starters including the snapper tartare with Yarra Valley pearls and chargrilled baby octopus with chorizo. For mains, the spanner crab linguine and suckling pig will hit the spot.
There are plenty of dessert choices. For something light try the sorbets, lovingly made at the restaurant. Choose from unique flavour combinations including watermelon and pepper, pineapple and coriander and the winner—salted caramel with banana.
We’re not saying a trip to Spain in summer wouldn’t top this experience but short of an airfare to Europe this will do the trick.
