One of Bondi’s most popular restaurants has opened in Surry Hills. You’ll find Mamasan 2.0 at the end of Gelato Messina’s ever-present queue on Crown Street.
Inside this visually striking, three storey bar and restaurant is a collection of eclectic art and furniture that provides a modern yet time-worn atmosphere. Like the sashimi bar built from an 80 year old wooden dinghy and a giant Japanese Maple tree illuminated by an incredible blue light installation of Japanese blossoms. It’s a great spot to sit back and enjoy a cocktail or two and people watch Surry Hills’ most popular dining precinct.
Bondi’s pan-Asian menu has been replicated at the Surry Hills site with a well stocked list of Japanese whiskies, Asian beers, sake and Asian inspired cocktails. We recommend trying the Sapporo if you haven’t sampled Japanese beer or have a look through their abundant cocktail list that has plenty of Asian twists on the old classics.
The food menu specialises in sushi, sashimi and yum cha style dishes. Start with some edamame, steamed and spiced with garlic, salt and pepper. The meticulously created One Bite Beef or Li Zai is a signature that speaks volumes about the amount of care that goes into the Mamasan menu. The Tuna Tataki (see above) is a great example of Japanese cooking at its best; simple ingredients brought together with care and understanding.
The Chilli Lamb is our go-to dish. If like us you can’t resist spicy, crispy and tender meat this might be your favourite too. A great combination of heat and freshness in the lemon and herbs is truly a winner.
Next visit we’re keen to try the overnight cooked pork belly ($23).
Conveniently located on Crown Street, Mamasan sits somewhere between bar and restaurant. A great spot to enjoy a cocktail or settle in for a night of winning dishes in the cosy Sashimi Bar. If you’re after dessert, head down the road, join the queue and get your weekly fix of salted caramel gelato at Messina.
Mamasan
403 Crown Street, Surry Hills