La Grillade
118 Alexander St
Crows Nest, Sydney
La Grillade has been around for eons. It's one of those institutions that everyone's probably heard of - even if you're not quiet sure where they are. Well there in Crows Nest on a corner and its a place that is surprisingly big once you get inside. There are plenty of different spaces there too, catering for intimate dinners through to functions. It has real atmosphere too.
So, what to start with? Is there anything more French for an entree than escargot's? These came in a serving of twelve and Sir couldn't resist them. He devoured the lot and the delicious garlic butter they were cooked in.
Mlady's love of gnocchi was satisfied yet again. It was a big serving for a starter with big flavours as well. She wanted to leave some to save stomach space but couldn't!
One of the other starters that tempted several people in our group was the duck liver pate. It arrived in its own pot topped with port jelly and served with crisps and cornichons.
Sir can't resist duck so the main course of duck breast was always going to be in front of him. The Muscovy duck from Grimaud Farms was cooked sous-vide then pan finished, cubed and served in cassis, sweet & sour cherry sauce. It was gamey, tangy and delicious. .
Mlady on the other hand heads towards her salmon very frequently - and this was again no exception. The Atlantic salmon was cooked sous-vide to a light pink colour and infused with basil, lime zest and a hint of chilli. It was a big serving that was cooked to perfection and well and truly passed the taste test.
Sides of mixed vegetables and some delicious sweet potato fries went very well. The sweet potato fries aren't on the menu but if you get the chance to have them you should!
Dessert time was next - and we certainly weren't going to miss this.Sir kept to his very French selections and chose the creme brulee. Unsurprisingly, it was a big serving with a toffee layer on top that shattered beautifully to reveal a rich smooth custard.
Mlady's inner chocaholic resulted in her choosing the rich chocolate mousse. She was very pleased when it lived up to its name - and was rich. The big flavours hit the spot.
Two other desserts consumed within the group were the creme caramel and the vanilla bean panna cotta with mixed berry compote. They both looked good too and received the tumbs up as they were being eaten.
It's easy to see why La Grillade has been around for so long. It ticks all the boxes with great food and service in a lovely place. We also got to enjoy the singing of our waiter - a surprise that was excellent!