Vapiano
Cnr King and York Sts (under Grace Hotel)
Sydney CBD
This strikingly beautiful restaurant is at street level under the Grace Hotel. It looks as though no expense was spared in fitting it out – it’s a big space with high ceilings and elegant appointments. The mezzanine level upstairs (a large but cosy area with it’s own bar and lounge) can be reserved for functions.
As we arrived, we were each handed a card similar to a credit card. Our host and manager Diego explained the “paywave” system of ordering both food and drinks. As you leave, each person presents their card and pays for their own items. Such a great concept – no more bill-splitting hassles.
Our host and manager Diego showed us around the food counters and explained how it all works. Pizza and anitipasto on one side, pasta and risotto on the other. You can tailor your dish to suit you tastes and watch them in action as they prepare it just for you. There are plenty of chefs on the job so we didn’t have to wait for long. All the pasta and sauces are freshly made.
We started with the Prosciutto Bruschetta – a simple but tasty slab of prosciutto-topped fresh mozzarella. Diners are encouraged to make use of the cute pots of fresh basil on the tables and the other oils and condiments provided.
Fresh pasta is always tempting, so we chose the Carbonara with tagliatelli and the Pollo e Spinaci (chicken and spinach with basil pesto and pine nuts).
As we watched them being made, we were invited to add or subtract ingredients as we wished. Both of these dishes were delicious! The servings were generous and the freshness was obvious.
We were both quite full, but the selection of desserts was too tempting to resist. Dame A chose the Homemade Tim Tam Smash – a creamy blend with smashed Tim Tams and a crunchy topping. It was wonderful! Dame M thoroughly enjoyed the White Chocolate Cheesecake with salted caramel sauce and honeycomb on top. Absolutely delicious.
We both decided this was a place we’d like to revisit. Good food, generous servings, happy staff and beautiful décor. The prices were very reasonable and kids are well catered for. They are open from11am until 11pm every day but close at midnight Friday and Saturdays.
Those Dames dined as guests of Vapiano. Big thanks to Diego for looking after us.