Randwick’s craft beer go-to, The DOG, has recently unveiled some big changes to their upstairs space, introducing a new American-French fusion eatery by the name of Duke’s Bistro. It’s part of a rethinking of traditional pub grub, taking the concept further with the large 170-seater bistro and a focus on casual dining in an art deco space that pushes the origins of the pub forward with a French colonial meets New Orleans design concept.
A balcony that stretches the length of the building has naturally been incorporated into the design of the new diner, which is made to offer both small intimate spaces and spacious communal dining areas. A large open plan kitchen features, now making use of two specially designed rotisseries with which Executive Chef Dwayne Baber has used to introduce an array of meats like Lamb Shoulder and Confit Duck to the menu, along with smaller bistro-style plates like Smoked Beef Brisket and mac ‘n’ cheese bake and Bone Marrow Brûlé. Larger groups can dig into three different banquet options, and those who smartly save enough room for dessert will be rewarded with the likes of Peanut Butter Chocolate Fondant served with pure cream, and Tarte Tatin Du Jour.
“What we are aiming to do here is French classics with a modern twist at affordable pub prices”, explained Baber. “Dishes are seasonal and made for sharing, so diners can try lots of different dishes from the quintessentially French Escargot Beurre Parsillé Vol au Vent and Duck Rillette to whole joints of meat with an American twist like Beer Brined Chicken and Hanger Steak”.
Of course, beer is a big focus, with 12 taps pouring up a number of selections along with an extensive wine list that travels from Australia and New Zealand to France and USA, curated by ex-Rockpool sommelier Louella Mathews. Cocktails have been designed after both sides of the Atlantic, with signatures like Soixante Quinze with cognac, fresh lemon, syrup, and Crémant sparkling, and a simple recreation of the classic Sazerac.
Duke’s Bistro
Address: Upstairs, 2 St. Marks Rd, Randwick 2031
Contact: 02 9398 2682
Website: doghotel.com.au/dukesbistro
Hours: Mon-Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun 12pm-4pm and 5pm-11pm
Image supplied.
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