If you thought the team at Portside Wharf was done with hot-to-trot new restaurant openings, you are mistaken. Next month, a new eatery will offer diners a high-end take on Korean barbecue, with Marble Korean Steakhouse targeting a March opening. Mixing the sophistication of a modern steakhouse with the buzzing energy of Seoul, Marble Korean Steakhouse will boast a modern-industrial interior aesthetic (built by Lowry Group), with mood lighting setting the scene for what we hear will be a one-of-a-kind grilling experience. Operated by Vanessa Devine and her chef-husband Simon Kang, the duo is investing in top-of-the-line equipment, including cutting-edge smokeless grills (imported directly from Japan) that remove the smoky haze, while staff are also on hand to assist with table-side grilling. When it comes to the all-important protein, Marble Korean Steakhouse will be serving premium cuts of high-grade meat served with Michelin-calibre precision, while the rest of the menu will take cues from traditional Korean cuisine – think colourful side dishes, pickled vegetables and house-made sauces. The restaurant also will also boast its own cocktail bar and will be serving a specialised wine flight program with a collection of 75-ml pours curated to match specific cuts of meat. Stay tuned for more on Marble Korean Steakhouse when it opens to the public next month.
Fried chicken and fine wine might make for strange culinary bedfellows to some, but not the team at ESSA. The Robertson Street fine diner is pairing the two for its new monthly hang, which is taking place on the first Saturday of the month from Saturday March 1. Between 12:00–4:00 pm, ESSA will be slinging serves of crispy fried chicken (and caviar, if you’re feeling fancy) alongside free wine tastings, with budget-friendly wines also available by the glass. While bookings aren’t essential, we recommend making one just to make sure you don’t miss out. Click here to secure a seat.
