French Provincial, alive and well in Newtown

Travelling through France I learnt at a very early age that the best places to stop for a meal were the ones with all the trucks parked outside. The food is generally superb, simple, plentiful and cheap. They use a lot of the “fifth quarter” cuts and they’re offaly good. Although a bit more up-market, “The Peasants Feast Restaurant” in Newtown reminds me of those places. The décor is very French Provincial, right down to the images of roosters, fanfares and heavy tapestry tablecloths. The blackboard menu is a delight to read and the food surpasses all expectations. The Lambs’ Kidneys with Green Tomato, Raisins and Verjus were succulent and tasty, the Peppered Squid and Chorizo Sausage with Grilled Vegetables perfectly cooked, tangy and a fabulous match and the Salad of Avocado, Ruby Grapefruit, Watercress and Pomegranate Dressing light, aromatic and unusual. The mains were just as good. The Oxtail with Parsnip Mash and Prunes was slow-cooked to perfection and the Cassoulet of Duck Leg, Pork, Toulouse Sausage and White Beans the best I have tasted in a very long time. The Twice Cooked Gruyere Souffle with Field Mushrooms and Truffle Oil was too light and the truffle oil superfluous. The Chicken Breast with Sweet Potato Puree and Beetroot Jus was perfectly moist, although rather on the sweet side. Service was friendly, although a little “blonde” at times. The only real gripe: the bread… or the soggy, starchy white mush posing as bread.

Desserts and cheeses were excellent and value for money was exceptional. The restaurant is BYO and if you like French Provincial food, a “must visit”.

Score: 6

For more information or bookings:

The Peasants Feast Restaurant

121 A King Street

Newtown NSW 2042

Tel.: 02 9516 5998