Onzieme, a culinary gem in Canberra, deserves an 11/10 rating, and here's why! But be warned: this review might make your taste buds dance with anticipation.
The restaurant, owned by chef Louis Couttoupes, has been a local favorite since its opening in 2023. With a menu that changes regularly, each visit promises a unique culinary adventure. My recent dinner there, after their holiday break, was a testament to this.
The adventure begins with a unique cocktail experience. Before our table was ready, we descended into 11e Cave, a hip underground bar. Here, award-winning bartender Brett Nebauer crafted creative cocktails, and we savored a pet nat from a local winery, Mada. It was a refreshing prelude to the feast ahead.
And then, the culinary journey truly commenced. Guided by Louis and his team, we opted for the $95 'feed me' option, a trust-the-chef experience. We chose lamb and kingfish as our proteins, and the kitchen seamlessly accommodated dietary restrictions.
The wine list, akin to a novella, was a delight for wine enthusiasts. With sections dedicated to individual winemakers and regions, it was a comprehensive guide. Symbols indicated natural wines and those made by women, a thoughtful touch that I believe more restaurants should embrace.
But here's where it gets controversial: should wine choices be influenced by the winemaker's gender? We debated, eventually selecting a petit chablis, guided by our knowledgeable server.
The meal was a symphony of flavors. The flambadou oysters, prepared with an ancient French technique, were smoky and creamy, topped with salmon roe. The crab toast and tomato consommé were refreshing, while the potato galette and beef tartare were classics done right.
Louis' respect for vegetables is remarkable. The butternut pumpkin, cooked in the wood oven, was tender and flavorful. The shiitake mushrooms with crispy leek were an umami explosion. But the star? The pickled watermelon salad with feta and szechuan oil. It was a burst of freshness with a lingering warmth, leaving me craving more.
And this is the part most people miss: the simple yet profound dessert. Coconut sorbet, granola, and wood-oven charred berries. The charring added a depth that elevated the dessert.
Onzieme is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. Located on Kennedy and Eyre streets in Kingston, it's open Tuesday to Saturday, 6-11 pm. Follow their Instagram for updates and be part of the culinary conversation.
What's your take on gender-focused wine sections? Do you think it's a step towards inclusivity or an unnecessary categorization? Share your thoughts below!
