Supernormal (Brisbane – pictured, above)
Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann’s Supernormal opened in Brisbane in July 2024.
The lively, Asian-influenced restaurant acknowledges its second location – Melbourne being the first – through its menu influenced by local produce, and design which takes cues from the landscape and climate.
Located on Queen Street’s riverfront, alongside historic Customs House, Supernormal draws on the cuisines of Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul and Hong Kong with classic dishes revisited and new iterations born.
The menu shares lineage with Supernormal Melbourne – appetisers, raw bar and entrees to start, with dumplings, mains and large dishes designed to share – but is a homage to southeast Queensland produce, climate and lifestyle.
The wine list features varietals selected to accompany the textures and flavour profiles of the food.
Each has been selected with a focus on quality and versatility, with priority given to family-owned producers.
Cocktails reflecting the subtropical climate are also offered, with bold tiki influences alongside restrained interpretations of classics with seasonal nods.
Dan Dan (Sydney)
Located in the heart of Pyrmont, close to Sydney’s Darling Harbour, Dan Dan brings a modern twist on classic Asian dishes.
The 170-seat restaurant and bar has been designed with a minimalist aesthetic – its muted colours and functionality convey a laidback attitude with elements of Asian culture.
The layout of Dan Dan lends itself to a variety of functions, from large events that use the full space, to intimate gatherings utilising the venue’s cosy booths, communal tables and private dining areas.
A vibrant menu, designed by chef Andrew Duncan, features Asian-inspired dishes such as Dan Dan noodles, sizzling Mongolian lamb and bang bang chicken salad.
Percy (Sydney)
Recently launched at the historic Hotel Woolstore 1888, in Sydney, Percy is a Spanish wine bar that draws on the vibrant pintxos and tapas culture of San Sebastian and Barcelona.
The 50-seat venue serves authentic Basque-style small plates, including gilda, paired with a rotating selection of organic and minimal-intervention wines.
With a laidback vibe and design that nods to Basque culture, Percy is perfect for casual dining with communal eating and private dining room options, all just a stone’s throw from Darling Harbour.
Vinabar (Sydney)
Vinabar is a Vietnamese-inspired microbar hidden behind a banh mi cart on Kent Street, in Sydney’s CBD.
This intimate venue, occupying no more than two parking spots, blends elegance with simplicity, featuring 60 silk lanterns and a scaled replica of Da Nang’s Golden Hand Bridge.
Venue manager Tony Yang crafts cocktails inspired by his personal experiences and Vietnamese cuisine, offering unique creations such as the pandan sesame oil-infused Opens With Sesame martini, and the Ca Phe Martini, which is a Vietnamese spin on the classic espresso martini.
Vinabar’s distinctive charm, relaxed atmosphere and inventive drinks make it a popular spot for after-work drinks and small gatherings.
The bar also offers freshly made pork baby banh mis until 2am every day.
Med (Canberra)
Located in Canberra’s vibrant Realm Precinct, eastern Mediterranean restaurant Med brings a fusion of Greek, Lebanese and Turkish flavours to the national capital.
Inspired by the bustling streets of Istanbul, the menu highlights fresh, seasonal produce infused with smoky flavours from a Josper grill.
Diners can enjoy an a la carte experience or indulge in a banquet featuring dishes such as BBQ king prawns with chilli, spiced lamb cutlets with eggplant, saganaki halloumi and the decadent baklava sundae.
Complement your meal with Mediterranean-style rosés, signature cocktails or curated Greek and Turkish wines.
Whether it’s a casual dinner, special celebration or group event, this culinary gem offers an unforgettable taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Canberra.
Maison Bâtard (Melbourne)
Nearly a decade in the making, Maison Bâtard channels the splendour of old-school Melbourne hospitality and the city’s enduring love for timeless Parisian elegance.
Located at 23 Bourke Street, in the CBD, Maison Bâtard flows across four levels, with a grand circular staircase adorned with wrought iron balustrade running throughout, separating the signature offerings: Restaurant Bâtard, La Terrasse and Le Club.
The collective vision of Chris Lucas, and his wife and creative consultant, Sarah Lucas, the space represents their shared love of art and design.
They have hand-selected pieces from their travels to bring authentic beauty and understated sophistication to the opulent interiors, including works by conceptual artist Claire Fontaine.
The culinary offering is a collaboration of Lucas, his long-time culinary director, Damian Snell, and executive chef Adam Sanderson.
The menu eschews the heaviness of classical French fare for lighter, fresher flavours, which embrace local influences while paying homage to timeless classics.
Salted Egg (Melbourne)
With executive chef Adam Woodfield – of Chin Chin and Jimmy Liks fame – at the helm, Salted Egg has established itself as a culinary favourite in Melbourne’s CBD for corporate diners and their guests.
Located on Flinders Lane in the Quincy Hotel, Salted Egg’s southeast Asian menu is constantly evolving and represents traditional techniques and flavour. It features set-menu options starting from just $39 per person for seven courses.
The light and bright space is complete with intimate dining rooms and communal areas for groups and colleagues looking to network, celebrate or simply enjoy delicious dishes that promise robust flavours.
Also on offer are Melbourne-inspired cocktails, tiki drinks and a huge selection of Aussie wines.
