Truly unique restaurant concepts are few and far between on our homogenous dining scene, but Table for 20 attains this illusive goal with their 'hood dinners. Based on the guerrilla-dining concept (where underground restaurants operate out of private homes, spreading the word via text messaging), Table for 20 is designed to feel like an intimate extension of owner Michael Fantuz's home.
Diners text Fantuz (0416096916) to book their place at the communal table - kind of like an RSVP to a universal invite - arriving with bottle in hand by around 7.30pm. The tone is that of a private dinner party (albeit a very large one, including strangers as well as friends) and the homely space and the serving of the food on large platters help to facilitate this mood.
Unlike most dinners at a mate's place, there's naturally a cost involved; however, a portion of this goes to the Hope Street charity - adding a virtuous feel-good vibe to proceedings. In a city adept at sitting at communal tables without making eye contact, Table for 20 aims to bring a bit of sociability to an arguably antisocial neighbourhood.
Shelley Tustin
Open
m
t
w
t
f
s
s
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
O
O
O
O
Late
O
O
O
O
Wed-Sat 8pm-midnight
Italian
Set menu:
3 courses,
$60
$40 for vegans
Payment accepted: Cash Only
BYO (wine only)
This venue accepts bookings. It is essential to make a reservation ahead of time. Group bookings are supported.
All reviews and ratings are the expressed opinions of our users, and in no way reflects the opinions of yourRestaurants, its staff and its affiliates.
Posted by:
Canary Yellow
|
21 June 2007, 11.30am
Misleading
Ok, first things first. The website is quite misleading. You'd think table for 20....would be .......a table, for 20 (as per the title right?) however, when I walked in (beautifully modern but cosy setting setting mind you) there were two long tables, both with about 40 or more chairs. So, as you can imagine it wasn't quite as intimate as the website would have you believe. The tables are situated on the lower level and there is a small bar area above (which is a very neat concept). I soon figured out that there were actually 2 groups celebrating together for the night. My friend and I were one of few (I think) that actually came with the belief it would be a lot more random than it was. We then sat side-by-side, close to the end of one of the tables. Now, this dining experience could have been amazing except for the fact that you can make HUGE bookings which then means that obviously some people unaware of the situation are going to feel quite daunted when they realise they are kind of intruding on someone else s party!!! One girl in particular was quite rude to my friend and I firstly, by saying, "Would you mind moving to the end of the table so that I can squeeze in next to my sister" which I thought was fair enough but it meant my friend and I would be kind of squished at the end and corner of the table so, we very politely said we're not sure if we actually want too. This girl then looked at us and said, "Well, it is my 25th Birthday party and I did book the table." Hahaha like she owned the table or something!
Anyway, this kind of behavior is bound to happen when you have absolutely no idea of what you're getting yourself into!
I would suggest the host explain the situation to guests before they place a booking. I know it's not the hosts fault for guests' behavior but..... these negative things could be managed better.
I would definitely not go if you were on a date or with a friend. Only go if you are making a huge booking. The service was lovely and the food amazing - this part couldn't have been better.
Table for 20 is a set menu so, I would suggest if you're a vegetarian, Jewish or Muslim, ask what they are serving before you book seats.
Food:
Visit: Wed 20 June 2007
Mealtime: dinner
Service:
Atmosphere:
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