There’s an instant sense of comfort about Herringbone, tucked in a calm, almost suburban city backstreet. Natural light spills across the spacious interior, with its whitewashed walls, natural bentwood chairs and glistening herringbone-tiled bar. A living tree makes for an eye-catching centrepiece in the adjacent atrium dining space. Yet for all the laid-back charm, it’s clear the restaurant is powered by razor-sharp talent. Freshly shucked Smoky Bay oysters with shatta sauce set the tone for an à la carte menu that pops with colour, energy and occasional Middle Eastern influence. Both the generosity of dishes and exceptional service make this an ideal spot for long lunches and dinner with pals who like to share. The signature slow-roasted lamb shoulder with baharat, baba ghanoush and grilled lemon tickles the senses and fuels convivial chatter. Top it all off with fennel seed ice-cream, dark chocolate ganache and candied orange – it’s a crowd-pleasing (and momentarily conversation-stopping) favourite.
This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide’s reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way. To learn more about the process, click here.
Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide 2023
Our guide gives a yearly snapshot of the best restaurants to eat at right now. The best-rated restaurants, as judged by the reviewers’ first-hand experience, form our national Top 82.
