This little piggy went to market, this little piggy stayed home. All little piggy’s went to Swine and Co and got eaten by me…and you if you love pork as much as I do.
Swine and Co is the latest offering from the Urban Purveyor Group (The Argyle, Saké, The Cut, Ananas). Situated in the old Bavarian Bier Café site on O’Connell Street this three level venue ticks a lot of boxes. Nice bar for after work drinks- tick! Deli serving suckling pig croquettes and tasty sandwiches for lunch-tick! Underground dining with sophisticated fit out, great wine list and friendly service- tick! Champagne bar on the Mezzanine level perfect for private events- tick!
Housed in the former Bank of New South Wales, this art deco building is quite beautiful in its own right. But, head downstairs into the dining room and order yourself a bloody Mary. It comes with a candied bacon garnish and is the perfect drink to sip while you look around the room and discover endless pig references. There are the two large hogs heads mounted to the wall peering down on diners. Meat cleavers caged near the bar and a large sign reading “Nice to meat you” as you walk down the stairs.
Look past the chefs in the partly open plan kitchen and you’ll see a suckling pig rotating on a spit. While pig is king on this seasonal menu it’s not the only option. There are plenty of adventurous dishes to try including the crumbed sheep brains, steak tartar and black pudding served with Harvey Bay Scallops.
Whilst suckling pig is the signature dish it’s the 160g steak you can cut with a spoon that impresses me the most. It comes with a side of bone marrow and is quite possibly the most buttery steak i’ve ever eaten. Make sure you try the heirloom carrots covered in butter and the brussel sprouts. Forget any childhood memories of boiled, boring greens, at Swine and Co the sprouts are sprinkled with spec and are one of the best dishes on the menu.
There are plenty of local and international wines to order by the glass or bottle and more cocktails if that takes your fancy.
Make sure you leave room for dessert I’ve heard the crème caramel is a winner- if only I’d left some room myself!
Swine & Co. opens daily from 9am until late for sit-down lunch, takeaway deli items, drinks and dinner.