Berta
Restaurant Review by Franz Scheurer
Hard to find, just a large door in the upper part of a quiet alley behind the Travelodge on Wentworth Ave it’s like walking into another world from the quiet outside to the noisy, bustling bar/restaurant that hides at the end of a long corridor. They have a no-booking policy and it’s full, bustlingly so, with people queuing, waiting for a table. The staff is helpful in trying to seat you as soon as possible and looking after your thirst at the same time. Tip: have some olives and house-made grissini while you wait, they’re tops! This is the perfect place if you’re young, not on a date and need a drink with a quick plate of food to go with it. It’s not really the right spot for a prolonged meal. You can’t hear yourself think and the place is not conducive to lingering.
Scallops in pork fat are mouth-coatingly oily and surprisingly bland. The quail with beetroot displays flavours that to my palate simply don’t work. The soft polenta lacks salt and I am missing the protein. Just polenta is sort of boring me. The kingfish is very fresh and well-prepared, the pumpkin risotto is good and the meatballs are superb. The food arrives quickly and although you know they want to keep turning over the tables you never feel rushed. The wine list is excellent and affordable and a bottle of Etna Bianco matches our mood and works well. The blackboard food and wines change often and most wines are available by the glass. Value for money is good and you certainly will be entertained.
Noise: 92db
Would I go back: if I was 30 years younger, yes
Score: 6.5/10
For more information:
Berta
17-19 Alberta Street
Sydney
Tel.: 02 9264 6133