Relish waterfront views and Mediterranean flavours at Bondi’s newest venue, Lola’s Level 1.
The Eastern Suburbs has scored another waterfront venue that should be on your radar. The 94-seater restaurant and bar is set to open its doors this week within Bondi’s Pacific Building on level 1. With hospitality heavyweights Marco Ambrosino and Manny Spinola behind the concept, we’re expecting big things.
The venue is Mediterranean in style across three sections; the bar, dining room and balcony. Designed by H&E Architects, the interiors feature speciality stucco wall finishes, large mirrored archways and artwork by Pina Ambrosino. The dining room boasts beautiful terracotta lamps, dark stained oak chairs and leads directly onto the balcony for crystal views of Bondi Beach.
Head Chef Paula Pantano is at the helm of the kitchen along with her experience from Crown Sydney, Mandarin Oriental Group and Four Seasons. The menu has been split into sections but all dishes are designed to share in true Mediterranean style.
There’s a whole section dedicated to oysters with your choice between served natural, with a mignonette dressing or vermouth granita. Small plates include Pan Tumaca, Burrata and Cantabric Anchovies with Piquillo Peppers. Off The Plancha (centred around the plancha grill) includes Angus Hanger Steak with Chimichurri and Bullhorn Pepper, Spiced Lamb Skewers with Goats Curd and Pickled Cucumber, and Octopus with Charred Eggplant and Tahini. Larger plates include Cez salad with Chicken or Prawns and a Lasagnetta with White Osso Bucco Ragu and Gremolata.
Louis West and Mon Ditbunjong have been appointed sommelier duties as they combine their 30 years of experience within restaurants including Bentley Restaurant, Cumulus, Dear Saint Elouise and Ragazzi. There are more than 20 wine options by the glass with a focus on smaller artisanal producers from the Mediterranean and Australian regions.
The bar has an impressive cocktail list showcasing Australian craft spirits and inventive spins on the classics. There will be Rosita, two types of Martinis and Bloody Marys. Estrella will also be poured from ceramic taps for those needing relief from the Bondi heat.
Lola’s Level 1 will be a place for all happenings; knock-off drinks with colleagues, special occasion dinners with family or boozy long lunches with friends. The doors open this Friday, 15th of October and will be open daily from noon to 10pm.
Find out more and book HERE