Christmas Dinner @ 3 Weeds Hotel Restaurant

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Posted 2012-12-08 by Justine Crowley ⇒ follow

You're in your own little world here, and why not? Life is short right? Absolutely. 3 Weeds at Rozelle has proven that pubs have come a long way. Needless to say 3 Weeds is a real trendsetter. Tranquillity, opulence and serenity is enjoyed in the restaurant area. Having tried their recent three-course Christmas dinner with a close friend of mine, I can just say that the experience is simple, awesome and utterly stunning. I even just received a thank you e-mail from this friend of mine for the experience. In all honesty, I did not know what to expect, yet the food, decor, ambience and service exceeded all preconceived expectations. No old style pub here, just modern hospitality at its best.

We were welcomed like we were having dinner in someone's house, and throughout 3 Weeds all of the staff are helpful, especially when it comes to finding the restaurant (in the first instance) and the restrooms afterwards. All facilities at 3 Weeds Rozelle took us all by surprise.

It was bliss to be sitting right near the garden area, where at first sight the ambience easily conveys a garden in a beautiful inner city home. Lamps, plants and a delicate Buddha statue are in easy view. Right near by is the delightful Christmas tree perched in front of a well kept mirror. On the other side, an abundance of wine bottles are in easy view, and no clutter is added to the restaurant space whatsoever. The space was renovated seven years ago.

After settling in with water for starters, I was in the mood for a lemon, lime and bitters drink. To our utter surprise, our delightful South African waiter delivered a well presented piece of kingfish with horseradish ice cream with a bread roll, well presented butter and sea salt for each of us. The bread was rather crunchy, yet the kingfish was superb. A bite of the horseradish ice cream was like a block of ice had arrived from the south pole - it was sensational. Why? These simple dishes were compliments from the chef, and judging by the presentation I knew I would be in for a treat. Tasteful and unique may not do any of these dishes much justice. If there was a word beyond unique, that would be nailing the quality of the dishes at the 3 Weeds restaurant thus far.

For starters, the King Salmon Gravlax ($23) with kohlrabi, broad beans, Vietnamese mint and coconut granita was simple and petite. A generous serving of salmon was provided with mint that looked jelly like, yet it complimented the fish and all other elements of the dish with finesse. Despite sharing, it was nice to have been presented this dish (and the mains) on my own plate. A citrus taste was enjoyed in parts, while a tangy lemon crossed with lime taste was evident in another part of this dish. Needless to say the flavours blended in nicely, and there was no overpowering taste sensation. A beautiful entree that has earnt a lot of respect.

The elegance and culinary delights continued when the time came to devour the mains. The Riverina Milk Fed Lamb ($36) with roasted rump, rosemary, caramelised white asparagus, pickled vegetables and buttermilk was different yet tasty. Deja vu, as my friend and I decided to share we received two pieces of quality lamb cuts with seasoning on the top. If you prefer your meat cuts to be well done, you also have that choice. My friend and I opted for the pieces of meat to be cooked to the medium level. The asparagus was caramelised just right without feeling overly salty. The milky sensation worked wonders with the lamb, and the little pink piece of paradise actually worked. Expect something different. The lamb could have been cooked just for a couple more seconds, otherwise this dish was stunning.

The experience would not have been complete if it wasn't for the dessert. The Tasting Plate ($30) was a decision well made. Clearly, a lot of work and technical ability had gone into the dessert, and this dish was well executed. A fitting finale to a perfect Christmas dinner experience. The dish (at first sight) looked too good to eat, only to make a 'pro-hart' arty mess during this dish, especially as the ice cream and the raspberry sorbet melted quite quickly.

The waiter explained each component to the dish. The tasting plate includes Banana Brulee, Jack Daniels 'Tennesse Honey' ice cream with raspberry sorbet and burnt caramel nougat with traces of chocolate. I also noticed some strong pistachio flavour. The hardest part is where to start - just start anywhere. It is advisable to tuck into the ice cream and sorbet first. Berries and chocolate go hand in hand, that is a given. The caramel (at times) overpowered the taste of the berries, yet all in all the dish was stunning. Six stars. You will definitely get your money's worth here. The 3 Weeds logo was also on one of the chocolate pieces. Stunning work. Creativity at its best.

We were going to enjoy a cup of tea by the Little Marionette at the end, yet my friend and I were so full. Come here with an appetite, and you will appreciate three courses of Christmas bliss for dinner. This Christmas dinner is available at the restaurant of 3 Weeds Rozelle from 6:30pm every Tuesday to Saturday night from now until Christmas. Pre-Christmas celebrations can also be enjoyed in the bar area at 3 Weeds. Discounts apply if you book early, and if you're a member of the 'Friends of the Weeds' program.

If that is Christmas dinner, that is all I need to enjoy Christmas on a high. Let your Christmas be merry with fine food here. The elegance in terms of the presentation of the food, as well as the strong attention to detail when it comes to quality table service is flawless. A perfect plate to enjoy dinner in a cosy environment with a close friend, partner or family member. A fantastic place (in addition to celebrating Christmas) to celebrate any success or anniversary period additionally.