Continuing Kent’s birthday celebration at Bennelong restaurant…
After our lunch, we felt like making the most of the Sunday live jazz by treating ourselves to a cheese plate and some drinks. Our waitstaff transferred us from the main dining area to Bennelong Bar, which was located on a higher platform.
Once we got there, I marveled at the scene we were facing. ‘Wow! What a stupendous view!’ I said to Kent while grabbing his camera to take some photographs. What was so great about being on a higher level was that the cityscape and the motion of the buzzing restaurant were all in full view! This change of scenery also gave us a closer sight of Bennelong’s Larrakitj artwork, created by eight senior Indigenous artists, and the cool MELT lamps by Tom Dixon.
We ordered a cheese plate to share, and I fancied a glass of martini-style cocktail – Dear Rose. Kent was happy with his water for the time being. I love blue cheese, but what stood out for me from the three different types of cheese was the goat cheese. It was buttery, had an acidy-savory taste, and a smooth texture. ‘It must be good because you are not a goat cheese fan!’ Kent commented as he was as surprised as I was.
The floor-to-ceiling glass wall at the bar section offered us partial views of the Opera House shells. Back to my space-age fantasy, the tiles of the shell evoke the scales of an alien egg to me. Yes, the spaceship and the alien egg! I liked to be lost in my imaginary world… until the vision of Sydney Harbour Bridge brought me back to reality.
The couple who occupied the bar table right next to us seemed to be busy taking selfies. I don’t blame them, why wouldn’t you when you come here! Once they left, it was our turn to take photos – including selfies, believe it or not! Soon enough, that table was taken again by a group of young ladies. Judging by their attire, I thought they might pop in for a post-theatre snack and drink.
Besides the picturesque views from almost all angles, the second best thing about being at the bar must be being near the jazz band. On that particular Sunday, the live music was brought to us by Sandy Evans with Phillip Johnston Trio. The leisure ambience at Bennelong Bar made us forget about time. Who wouldn’t love to enjoy tasty morsels while listening to live jazz on a long, lazy Sunday afternoon? And exactly that, was the sweet wrap from our Bennelong celebration.
A Diner’s Note
One of the wonderful things about coming to Bennelong Bar is that you can just walk in without a reservation! That suits perfectly too for those theatregoers. Talking about theatre… to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Sydney Opera House, we’ve secured our tickets to see Swan Lake by the Australian Ballet this December. I think we should take advantage of coming to the House and enjoy a glass of bubbly and sample some fresh oysters…
