My friend and I recently visited Bellevue Woolloomooloo, a restaurant that has undergone a remarkable transformation in its new venue. From the moment we stepped inside, the atmosphere was one of sophisticated elegance. It’s a chic space that perfectly balances a refined aesthetic with a welcoming warmth, hinting at the unique experience to come.
We chose the Discovery Set Menu at $85 per person, which offered a wonderful introduction to the restaurant’s distinct French-Japanese fusion cuisine. The menu is the creation of Executive Group Chef Antoine Moskovitz. Chef Moskovitz brings an impressive pedigree to Bellevue, having honed his skills in acclaimed kitchens, including those with Michelin stars, across France and internationally. His deep understanding of classical French techniques, combined with a precise appreciation for Japanese flavours and artistry, is evident in every dish. He truly brings an innovative and thoughtful approach to the dining experience.
Our evening began with the breads: a delicious Petit pain de Campagne, served with both a creamy beurre doux and a vibrant, sharp olive oil. A simple yet perfectly executed start.
Next, a series of exquisite snacks arrived, each a delightful bite. The Crab Croquettes were wonderfully crisp, revealing a creamy, flavourful crab filling, subtly enhanced by bonito and a delicate wasabi crème fraîche. The Potato Pillow was a textural marvel, its soft interior contrasting beautifully with the crispness of apple remoulade and the briny pop of avruga caviar. The “Faux Gras,” a rich and smooth liver parfait, was perfectly balanced by the sweet and tangy notes of persimmon relish. We also enjoyed the Two Bites Pork Belly, which offered succulent pork with sweet papaya and the earthy crunch of black sesame. Finally, the Consommé “Royale” with shiitake crackling was a deeply savoury and comforting sip, showcasing the depth of flavour from the kitchen.
For the small plates, the Spanner Crab Bouillabaisse was a standout. It offered the familiar comfort of a traditional bouillabaisse, yet was elevated by the subtle richness of miso and a surprising, almost ethereal touch of foie gras dust. The “Dusty Salmon” was a true highlight: the confit salmon was incredibly tender, flaking at the touch, with its delicate flavour complemented by the freshness of seaweed, a hint of lemon, creamy avocado, and a gentle note of ginger. Each element contributed to a harmonious and invigorating dish.
For our mains, we decided to sample both. The Bone-in Fillet of Beef, sourced from Ranger’s Valley, was magnificent. Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, it was incredibly tender, infused with the aromatic essence of thyme jus and a rich, umami-laden miso butter. This dish truly spoke of quality produce and expert execution. The Bar au Beurre Blanc, featuring sea bass, was equally impressive. The fish was flawlessly cooked, its delicate white flesh complemented by the crisp freshness of fennel and the luxurious saltiness of smoked caviar. The classic beurre blanc sauce was executed with precision, adding a rich, tangy counterpoint. Alongside these, the Velvet red potato purée was a side dish elevated to an art form – impossibly smooth, creamy, and utterly satisfying.
Throughout the evening, the service was impeccable. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, and we particularly enjoyed our conversation with the restaurant manager, whose genuine passion for the establishment and its vision was clear. These personal touches significantly enhanced our dining experience.
To conclude our meal, the dessert was a deconstructed masterpiece: the Paris caramelised pears open Cheesecake with sesame cream. The caramelised pears were sweet and tender, beautifully complemented by the rich, creamy cheesecake elements, all brought together by the nutty, aromatic notes of sesame cream. It was a perfect ending, offering a sophisticated balance of sweetness and texture that mirrored the entire menu.
Bellevue Woolloomooloo offers more than just a meal; it provides a memorable dining experience. Chef Antoine Moskovitz has truly created something special by seamlessly blending the elegance of French cuisine with the refined subtlety of Japanese flavours. The stunning new venue, the sophisticated atmosphere, and the exceptional food combine to deliver an evening of pure indulgence. If you are looking for a fantastic new restaurant in Sydney that offers a unique and high-quality culinary journey, Bellevue Woolloomooloo comes highly recommended.
Bellevue Woolloomooloo
2, 6F Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011, Australia
T: +61 2 9948 8995 | E: info@bellevuewoolloomooloo.com.au
