Escape the city in just 40 minutes to enjoy the Mediterranean flavours and river views at Jaaks.
Overlooking the serene Georges River, Jaaks dining is dishing up local flavours in their bright airy location. With large glass windows, white washed walls and nautical vibes, it is the perfect space to spend an afternoon. The room is spacious and great for families with a large garden outside for the little ones to play in.
Jaaks is on the ground floor of the Kyle Bay on Georges River, with the original building built in the shape of a ship. It was only recently did they announce the appointment of acclaimed chef Arman Uz. Coming from Efendy in Balmain and Flanagan’s Dining Room in Thirroul, chef Arman is renowned as a champion of Illawarra regional produce. As for the whole team at Jaaks, they’re are all about family (JAAKS is the first letter of each family members name), locally sourced ingredients and fresh vibrant flavours.
The sharing-style dishes are simple and let the quality ingredients sing. On the ‘flora’ menu, you’ll find the likes of creamy labne with burnt chilli butter ($16), haloumi with local honey ($18) and wild spinach with black rice duck egg yolk and feta ($22). The haloumi in particular is a firm favourite, perfectly fried and drizzled with just enough sweet honey to match the salty flavours.
There are a couple of surprises too that stray from the Mediterranean theme such as the Kingfish with fennel, finger lime, mandarin and ouzo ($20). This generous portion of thinly sliced raw fish is beautiful with the fresh flavours of fennel and lime and comes topped with a beautiful spoon of caviar.
If you are feeling rather hungry, try the pan seared octopus. Served with a black eyed pea and pomegranate salad, it has a sweet and smoky flavour that would almost remind you of spare ribs ($36).
For dessert, there are a lot of creamy options such as the greek yoghurt with lemon curd, blackened mandarin and mint. The curd is set well offers a great contrast to the sweet fruit. The dish is sprinkled with some shards of dried yoghurt which really lift the dish. ($16) For those that prefer desserts that aren’t so creamy, you could try the baklava ($16) or selection of farmhouse cheeses ($26).
Wash it all down with a simple selection of Australian and Greek wines from $9-$14/glass. For a more long and leisurely wine driven experience, Jaaks also offers the entire spectrum of wine varietals by the bottle. You can opt to keep things light with a crisp white wine, travelling towards more aromatic and fruit driven varietals. Heavy red drinkers will also be left satisfied, with a range of locally sourced and Greek vinos available, ranging from a reasonable $32-$94 per bottle.
Sydney-siders that want a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle with some great homely food to match, this could be the perfect spot for you!
Jaaks Dining
12 Merriman St, Kyle Bay, NSW 2221
(02) 9546 5953
https://www.thekylebay.com.au
Open Wednesday – Saturday: 12-3pm, 6-9pm and Sunday: 12-8pm