Restaurateur Andrew Becher, owner and operator of successful European inspired restaurants Franca and Parlar, will open his third venue, Armorica Grande Brasserie on Thursday 20 April in Surry Hills.
Armorica, a 150-seat restaurant that draws on classic Parisian Brasserie culture in a redefined contemporary way, is located on Crown St, Surry Hills in the site formerly occupied by Toko for the past 15 years. Named after the ancient Celtic region – that once encompassed much of modern-day Brittany and spanned into what would later become Paris – Armorica pays homage to the city of Paris itself, as well as its surrounding regions.
With an impressive custom-built Josper grill at the heart of the open kitchen, the menu will centre around the time-honoured tradition of wood-fire cooking. Executive chef, Jose Saulog has applied his signature contemporary style to build an extensive menu offering, with a nod to the rich cooking heritage and authentic techniques of Northern France. The menu will showcase the best of Australian seafood and meat, all getting the very best treatment on the fire.
The menu comprises small plates including a coral trout crudo with finger lime; as well as Foie Gras ‘Torchon’. Also featured is a lavish seafood tower; featuring oysters, prawn cocktail, octopus roulade and rock lobster. A large section of the menu is dedicated to ‘Steak Frites’, featuring the best of Australian beef, as well as the best grade of lamb – Gundagai Lamb Barnsley Chop GLQ5+.
Desserts have been designed by the group’s executive pastry chef Travin DeHoedt, with the focus mirroring the idea of matching time-honoured techniques with the very best of contemporary ingredients. Travin says, “simplicity is the focus, letting the quality of the ingredients speak for themselves. Think imported Valrhona chocolate, alongside native Australian produce, in a modernised approach to classic French desserts.”
Armorica’s wine list spans 400+ bins, with a focus on the classic wine regions of the world. The list will focus on winemakers who honour traditional methods and techniques, while also experimenting with new approaches to produce exceptional wines, with each of the wines hand-selected for drinkability, above all else. An extensive cocktail program will complement the food, with cocktails designed to be a reflection of contemporary Parisian culture, including the ‘Nougattine’, a twist on a Mai Tai with a French influence; and the ‘Citron Vesper’, a blend of 3 citrus fruits.
The restaurant design is a collaboration between Becher, design studio Steel and Stitch and custom joinery company Contempo and Co. The opulent space features timber detailed ceilings, hand-crafted European oak joinery, solid brass gantries and leather banquettes featuring deep red tones adorning the venue. The furniture and joinery have been custom designed and hand-made in Sydney.
Becher has collaborated with renowned American Illustrator David Plunkert on a selection of original art that will feature throughout the restaurant.
Armorica is located at 490 Crown St Surry Hills
Armorica will open for dinner, Tuesday to Sunday; and lunch, Friday to Sunday.
Reservations are now open, via www.armorica.com.au
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