Sel & Poivre

By Franz Scheurer

Sel & Poivre (salt and pepper) is a little corner of France right in the middle of busy Darlinghurst. The colours, the accents, the front of house’s attire, parts of the wine list, the narrow, cramped tables, the frantic pace and of course the food are so French you could think you’re dining somewhere in a Parisienne side-street.

Their menu lists traditional French fare along some not so French pastas and Mod Oz dishes. If you order traditionally you are rewarded with a terrific meal. Steer away from the other offerings, this is not why you are here!

The ‘Gratinated Snails with Parsley and Garlic Butter’ are a hit and the ‘Pork and Duck Rillette with Cornichons and Baguette’ very French. The ‘Country style Pâté’, also served with cornichons and a generous piece of baguette is equally excellent. For mains try the ‘Marinated Beef Cheeks with Miramar Cab/Sav Sauce and Frites’ or the ‘Seared Veal Liver with a French Shallot sauce and Frites’, both a good example of simple, delicious French fare. If you liked your pepper steak in the sixties, then this is one place that not only still has it on the menu but it’s actually worth ordering (they can also cook it perfectly ‘blue’) and the French fries are very moreish.

The best dessert no doubt is the ‘Tart Tatin, which is served warm (of course!) with crème anglaise and vanilla ice cream and the ‘Profiteroles filled with vanilla ice cream, topped with a homemade Chocolate sauce’ are pretty good, too.

Service is friendly and can be a bit haphazard. Attention to detail a bit vague but nothing is too much trouble. Value for money is exceptional, besides, what price can you put on a little piece of France right in the heart of Sydney?

Score: 6/10

For more information or bookings:

Sel & Poivre

263 Victoria Street

Darlinghurst NSW 2010

Tel.: 02 9361 6530