The Glebe Point Diner

By Franz Scheurer

One would hardly expect to find a restaurant this far down Glebe Point Road, much less one that serves terrific food in a convivial atmosphere with exemplary service. Glebe Point Diner is at the ‘posh’ end of Glebe, near the water. It’s immensely popular with the locals and terrific value for money, needless to say, it’s not always easy to get a booking

Just inside the entrance is a small bar, half of it accommodating customers awaiting a table, while others are happy to perch on tall stools, eating, drinking and enjoying themselves at the counter. The wall above is filled with blackboards, listing the menu and wines by the glass. A reasonably sized open kitchen at the end of the bar services the dining room, which flows over two adjoining rooms. Warm, dark tones, a tiled floor, high ceilings and small tables all contribute to the bistro feel. The chairs aren’t overly comfortable and the striped wallpaper on the back walls (mirrored in the gorgeous huge light-fittings) has a tendency to oscillate making me cross-eyed; however, the food is what we’re here for!

Paté, soup, salad, good bread and butter, chook, beef, pork or pasta, it’s all simple comfort food brilliantly handled. The kitchen brigade knows what pushes their patrons’ buttons and over-delivers in flavour and quantity. With only a blackboard menu (explained in detail by the wait staff) the chef has the option of changing it daily, going with the best produce available and with the seasons. This is food to enjoy with friends; having a good time seems to be the unspoken rule, and the personable, knowledgeable, attentive service aids this goal admirably.

The wine list contains some real gems; pity the fonts so small that it’s almost impossible to read (even for the youngsters among us!). The rooms do get rather noisy once they fill, but this doesn’t really matter as the focus is so clearly on food and group companionship. No place for a first date, that’s for sure but the sort of neighbourhood bistro we all want in our neighbourhood!

Go and try it for yourself, if you can get a table, it’s open for lunch Thursday to Sunday and dinner Wednesday to Saturday.

Score: 7/10

For more information and bookings:

Glebe Point Diner

407 Glebe Point Road

Glebe

Tel.: 02 9660 2646