After months of eager anticipation, Gerard’s has finally reopened. Dropping “Bistro” from its name, Gerard’s is ushering in a new era while still honouring its legacy as one of the dining institutions along James Street.
Read: Gerard’s Bistro Appoints New Executive Chef, Will Introduce New Menu and Revamped Look Soon
After closing for renovations from June to November 2023, the newly refreshed Gerard’s offers some exciting changes while still remaining the beloved neighbourhood gem loyal patrons have cherished for years.
Although diners can still expect the intimate ambiance and gracious service they are recognised for, the dining room has been stunningly transformed to transport guests to the exotic lands of the Mediterranean.
The dining room walls pay homage to ancient ruins of the Levant, Ottoman Empire, and Roman civilisations, bathed in deep red hues reminiscent of the rich, terra cotta soils found in that region.
Leading the kitchen is new Executive Chef Jimmy Richardson, whose impressive resume includes senior roles at acclaimed restaurants like Shangri-La Sydney’s Altitude, The Bridge Room, Café Paci, and Sydney’s Park Hyatt.
Standout new menu items include The Barbari bread, adorned with reduced whey and oregano, accompanied by smoked labneh. The Bateman’s Bay rock oysters, kissed by erk soos vinegar, provide a refreshing delight. Carnivores will rejoice at the Lebanese cured pork belly, a masterpiece of complex spices and melt-in-your-mouth richness.
Gerard’s has always been known for their curated selection of local wines, but they have now expanded their offerings to include international varietals as well, with an emphasis on Mediterranean styles that pair beautifully with Chef Richardson’s dishes.
Read: Award-Winning Chef Martin Boetz Presents Short Grain Restaurant in Fortitude Valley
It’s not so much the start of an entirely new era, but perhaps the opening of an exciting new chapter for this beloved neighbourhood gem. Gerard’s is now accepting reservations via their website, so book your table soon to be one of the first to experience the revived restaurant’s singular charm and celebrated cuisine.
Published 24-November-2023
