I recently had the privilege of attending the launch event of “Sip Savour Aussie Flavour” at Two 88 Bar & Kitchen, alongside fellow IHG One Rewards members and like-minded food enthusiasts. It was an evening filled with anticipation and excitement, as we gathered to explore the latest offering. It was a celebration of local and international flavours infused with native Australian botanicals.
One of the key highlights of “Sip Savour Aussie Flavour” is the selection of meats and cheeses that are sliced fresh to order. We’re talking about locally sourced and internationally renowned delicacies that will tantalize your taste buds. Let’s take a closer look at the stars of this show:
- Free Range Pork & Pistachio Terrine (Coburg, VIC)
- Tartufo Salami (Sydney, NSW)
- Prosciutto Di San Daniele (Villani, Modena, Italy)
- Maffra Cloth-Ashed Cheese (Gippsland, VIC)
- L’Artisan Grand Fleuri (Mortlake, VIC)
- El Esparto Manchego PDO (Spain)
While the meats and cheeses are undoubtedly the stars of the show, Two 88 Bar & Kitchen offers more than just that. Don’t forget to try out these delectable delights:
- Pulled Beef Brisket Croquettes: A melt-in-your-mouth experience that combines the rich flavours of pulled beef brisket with a crispy, golden exterior.
- Crumb Fried Duck Ravioli: A unique blend of textures and flavours that will take your taste buds on a journey.
- Shrimp Popcorn: A delightful and crunchy snack that’s perfect for sharing and savouring every bite.
Pair your meats and cheeses with an array of signature cocktails, each infused with native Australian botanicals.
- Wattleseed Espresso Martini: A fusion of wattleseed-infused vodka, coffee liqueur, wattleseed syrup, and coffee syrup that’ll give you a caffeine kick like no other.
- Lemon Myrtle Sour: Smoked bourbon, freshly squeezed lemon juice, can syrup infused with lemon myrtle, and aquafaba combine to create a citrusy and smoky sensation.
- Passionfruit Mojito: Dive into a tropical paradise with dark rum, light rum, fresh passionfruit puree from Queensland, passionfruit liqueur, fresh mint, fresh lime, and a sparkling soda to top it off.
We interviewed Lomesh Mudaliar, a passionate food and beverage enthusiast whose journey in the hospitality industry has taken him from a humble start as a hospitality student in Adelaide to his current role as the Food & Beverage Manager at Crown Plaza Darling Harbour. His diverse experiences, ranging from working in multiple food and beverage venues to overseeing award-winning rooftop bars and specialty restaurant openings, showcase a career filled with exhilaration, continuous learning, and deep gratitude.
The inspiration for Mudaliar’s latest culinary venture, “Sip Savour Aussie Flavour,” struck him during a casual brainstorming session while sipping wine at a bar in Adelaide. This innovative concept promises a delightful exploration of Australian flavours through carefully curated meats, cheeses, and wines pairings.
Recommendations
Meats:
- Paleta Iberica Bellota “Admiracion”
- Flavour Profile: The Paleta Iberica Bellota “Admiracion” captivates the palate with its intense, nutty undertones and a hint of sweetness. The slow curing process and acorn-fed diet of the Iberian pigs infuse the meat with a complexity that unfolds with each savoury bite.
- Texture: The marbling in the meat ensures a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the thin slices reveal a perfect balance of tenderness and chewiness.
- Wagyu Bresaola
- Flavour Profile: Wagyu Bresaola introduces a gourmet touch with its delicately marbled Wagyu beef. The beef’s buttery texture combines seamlessly with the earthy and umami flavours from the curing process, creating a savoury sensation that lingers on the taste buds.
- Aroma: The aroma is a symphony of rich, beefy notes, enhanced by the subtle infusion of spices during the curing phase.
Cheeses:
- L’Amuse Gouda:
- Flavour Profile: Aged to perfection, L’Amuse Gouda delights with a robust, caramelized sweet and savoury nuttiness. The crystalline texture offers a satisfying crunch, accentuating the cheese’s depth of flavour.
- Pairing: The Gouda’s bold character complements the meats, adding a layer of complexity to the tasting experience.
- El Esparto Manchego PDO:
- Flavour Profile: This Manchego PDO unfolds on the palate with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The sheep’s milk imparts a distinctive creaminess, while the aged quality introduces a pleasant nuttiness.
- Texture: The firm, crumbly texture adds an enjoyable contrast, creating a delightful interplay between creaminess and a satisfying bite.
Wines:
- Dead Man Walking Riesling:
- Flavor Profile: The Dead Man Walking Riesling brings a burst of citrusy freshness to the palate. Its lively acidity enhances the savoury elements of the meats and cheeses, creating a harmonious balance.
- Finish: A clean, crisp finish leaves the palate refreshed, making it an ideal companion for the more delicate flavours on the plate.
- Swinging Bridge Chardonnay:
- Flavour Profile: Swinging Bridge Chardonnay reveals a perfect marriage of oak and fruit notes. The well-balanced acidity and creamy texture complement the richness of the Wagyu Bresaola and L’Amuse Gouda.
- Aging: Partial oak aging adds a subtle complexity, while the fruit-forward profile elevates the overall tasting experience.
- Alta Pinot Noir:
- Flavour Profile: Alta Pinot Noir enchants with its delicate fruitiness, offering notes of red berries and a hint of spice. The light to medium body provides a gentle counterpoint to the bold flavours of the Paleta Iberica Bellota.
- Tannins: Silky tannins contribute to a smooth, velvety mouthfeel, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the pairing.
- Henschke ‘Keyneton Euphonium’ Shiraz Cabernet Blend:
- Flavour Profile: Lomesh’s personal favourite, the Henschke ‘Keyneton Euphonium,’ boasts a bold and complex blend. Dark fruits, hints of spice, and a touch of oak create a symphony of flavours that stands up to the robust character of the meats and cheeses.
- Structure: The well-defined structure and lingering finish make it a standout choice for those seeking a wine that can hold its own against intense flavours.
Two 88 Bar & Kitchen’s “Sip Savour Aussie Flavour” is more than just a meal, it’s an extension of a long lunch with friends.
Two 88 Bar & Kitchens
288 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000
T: +61 2 9063 0100 | E: Two88bar@ihg.com | Book Online
Mon-Sun: 12pm – 10pm
