From Escargots – Eclairs at Brasserie Ananas, Sydney

Bienvenue a Brasserie Ananas!

First discovered in the Indies in 1493 by Columbus (who presented it to the Spanish Royal Court back in Europe) the rare and exotic pineapple fruit soon became associated with the return of ships from extended voyages. How fitting that this traditional symbol of warm welcome and caribbean style hospitality has now found its spiritual home on Sydney harbour within the historical Rocks precinct .

Launched in September 2012, Brasserie Ananas (part of the Urban Purveyor Group which also includes Sake, The Cut and the eponymous Bavarian Bier Cafe outlets) is a glamorous gilt edged but laid back 1930s Parisian style brasserie with lots to offer both the busy business-lunch executive set and the hip after work crowd.

De Cinq a Sept

Recalling the classic French tradition of romantic assignations between the office and family dinner (where men would visit their mistresses de cinq a sept heures) and accompanied by cool French tunes, Brasserie Ananas now serves up a daily dose of tantalizing titbits including cocktails and a selection of champagnes by the glass (from $15) matched to delicious blackboard specials.

What a great value way to kick off any significant Sydney celebration night or even just wind down with friends and colleagues after a hard day in the office. What’s more the canapé selection and fresh fruit de mer platters add a sense of delicious decadence to your sensory experience at any time of day.

Plats du Jour

Wine geeks will love the full beverage list available on ipad to peruse at your leisure, but its the well designed compact one page food menu at Brasserie Ananas which really impressed me. From fresh lobster, crab, oysters and even snails from the sea to cape grim steak and braised lamb shoulder from the land  – whether you just fancy a little grazing, sharing some impressive plats pour deux or a full five course sit down extravaganza, Brasserie Ananas has got you covered. Main courses range from $23 – $42. Just like the food, the staff are warm and friendly, and even though Ananas is not a formal fine dining restaurant, each dish is hand finished at the table with tender loving care. Did I also mention the salted caramel eclair dessert (only $10) which was just to die for?!

For more information visit: www.ananas.com.au or call 02 92595668

Learn more about champagne visit: www.champagnejayne.com or follow t: @champagnejayne