An elegant menu and a wine list for days, Allan Grammar is bringing inner-city chic straight to the heart of Penrith.
Owners Sophia and Aaron Bernacki first made their impact on the Penrith hospitality scene when they opened Henri Marc, a trendy, tucked away cafe that is never shy of a crowd, especially on the weekends. Only a stone throws away, Allan Grammar takes a new direction, catering to the late afternoon and evening diners and sippers in a boutique and buzzing fashion.
Modestly located in a quiet, unsuspecting laneway and easy enough to miss- it's the gold plaque that's boldly engraved "ALLAN GRAMMAR" and the potted palms that hint that this is the home of a dapper good time.
Don't be expecting this to be 'just another bar', it’s more than a lick of crisp white paint on the walls that have transformed the space into something that wouldn't look out of place from an interior design magazine. It’s the emerald green plush velvet banquet seating, a wall decorated with a boastful collection of wines and abstract light fittings that make it stand out from the crowd. It’s an ambience that sings of old world charm full meets contemporary chic, without any pretention.
The diverse varieties and regions that have been expertly selected to craft the wine menu are designed to expand your palate and taste outside of your usual favourite drop. Different producers will be featured each month, so you’ll always have a new wine adventure to explore. Beers and cocktails are also on offer, featuring local and international craft brewers.
Food is a refined selection of share dishes, to suit all appetites and taste buds. Nibble on house-made bread with smoked whip butter, a side of local olives and ocean fresh Sydney rock oysters served natural or with a top of finger lime mignonette.
The baby chicken wing sambo’s with salsa verde and pickled carrot are a clever take on a classic and ham hock croquettes are an indulgent treat.
Larger meals are a blend of European and Asian inspired cuisines, the Hiramasa kingfish served with pomelo and radish packs a punch fusing together fresh and salty with citrus punches. The hardier orecchiette is delicately paired with spring greens and shavings of truffle pecorino, clean and fresh.
If a selection of cheeses and a wine are more your thing, you will not be disappointed. Milawa Blue served with vanilla apple butter and the d’affinous brie with honeycomb are matches made in heaven.
For locals, the addition of Allan Grammar to the dining scene is more than a welcome one. No more last trains back from the city and cab fares to enjoy a sophisticated evening of bespoke wines and dishes.
Experience Allan Grammar for yourself, open from Wednesday to Sunday from 5 pm till late.
14 -16 Woodriff Street Penrith NSW 2750