The Age Good Food Guide Awards 2008

1

 

'Restaurant of the year'

Branching out from his well-established spot at the top of the Sydney food scene to try and woo Melbourne's tough foodie crowd was a bold move for Neil Perry - but it paid off. Despite the glut of fabulous venues to choose from in this town, Melburnians have been flocking to Rockpool mark II, which combines aspects of the original aristocratic fine diner and an American-style steakhouse.

2

 

'Best new restaurant' and 'chef of the year - George Calombaris'

George Calombaris' combination of traditional Greek cuisine mixed with a dash of his signature off-beat style is clearly a winner, scoring two of this year's highest accolades. While his original menu is obviously the biggest draw, the foodie faithful have also been impressed by the venue's polished professionalism.

3

 

'Outstanding achievement award - Jacques Reymond'

Jacques Reymond has received multiple awards over the years for his namesake restaurant. This latest tip of the hat acknowledges him as a consistent contributor to the reputation of the Melbourne food industry.

4

 

'Professional excellence award - Ronnie Di Stasio'

Tricky food has its place in the hearts of food critics, but Ronnie Di Stasio's restaurant has always impressed by concentrating on breathtaking simplicity. Reviews of this place are commonly just a list of superlatives, making for boring reading but fabulous eating.

5

 

'The Age young chef of the year - Adam D'Sylva' and 'service excellence award - Ari Vlassopoulos'

Though Pearl has never been short of fans, these awards are a heart-warming acknowledgment of the people behind the scenes, who might be appreciated by satisfied diners every day but are rarely so overtly acknowledged.

6

 

'Dish of the year'

Picking a top dish must have been a tough job for those poor beleaguered judges. After much deliberation over many a menu, they've settled on chef Andrew McConnell's confit apple with burnt butter ice cream.

7

 

'Kemenys wine list of the year'

The Prince's signature restaurant has run away with this coveted prize, convincing the judges with its constantly evolving wine list. Wine manager Chris Crawford describes the list as combining well-established drops with "modern classics in the making."

8

 

'Best short wine list'

The wine list is probably short by necessity at this tiny little tapas bar, but there's still more than enough to keep thirsts quenched. Lourinha's wine list is almost entirely made up of European wines, with an emphasis on Spanish, Portuguese and Italian drops.

9

 

'Sommelier of the year - Dan Sims'

As the first Australian venture of uber-chef Jamie Oliver and his Fifteen Foundation, crowds are understandably lured here by food and fame. But who knew the wine was worth coming for as well? This award cements Dan Sims' reputation as one of the top sommeliers in town.

10

 

'Best website'

Gingerboy generated enough interest with its impeccable pedigree (it's owned by Ezard's Teage Ezard) and ultra-chic decor, but it has completed the package with a funky little website. You don't have to be a tech-nerd to appreciate the vibrant design.