There’s a new pop up restaurant in town. Located at Kingston’s Green Square (corner of Eyre and Jardine Streets), Kiosk is headed up by ex-Bar Rochford’s chef Louis Couttoupes.
The menu is written up with chalk on two blackboards – one outside and one inside. I’m solo for the evening, and get my pick of tables. I decide on a small one inside near the window. Each table has been set with napkins and cutlery, and adorned with small vases filled with native flowers and foliage.
It’s a 38 degree day, the temperature is at its peak, and I’m surprised that there is no air conditioning or a fan! Mind over matter. A waitress recommends I choose 3 dishes as the sizing is small especially with the small plates.
I decide on a cold dish – the fior di burrata with freeze dried and fresh strawberries and peas ($18). It’s the perfect weather for it. The smooth cream in the centre and overall mellow burrata is paired nicely with the tart strawberries and sweet crispy peas. There’s actually a lot for a single person and I don’t end up finishing all the burrata.
The gnocchi with pesto ($18) has angel hair chilli and cashews on top. There are only about 7 pieces but they’re fat pieces and easily fill me up after having all that burrata. I love the pesto and chilli mix, with the crunchiness of caramelised chilli cashews. Must try that at home.
Two dishes down, and I decide to finish on the miso caramel and chocolate tart with house made creme fraiche. I’m expecting a very sweet dish especially after seeing all that chocolate and the thick layer of caramel. However I am surprised by the big hit of saltiness in the caramel, due to the miso mix. The chocolate is a dark bittersweet chocolate, very nicely balanced. Unfortunately the house made creme fraiche is too sour for my taste buds and I leave most of this on the plate. Overall, it’s too salty and sour for me as I like sweet desserts. I understand the sweetness was being reduced but it wasn’t for me. It’s a very rich dessert and can easily be shared between two or more people.
This is no cheap dinner but it’s good food using fresh produce. Perhaps a way to try it is with afternoon drinks and a small plate or two to share.
The Kiosk menu changes weekly and the pop-up is here until May. Walk-ins only.
Kiosk
Corner Jardine and Eyre Streets, Kingston ACT
Opening hours
Tuesday to Thursday: From 6.00pm.
Friday to Saturday: From 5.00pm.
Foodgasm 8/10
Value for money 6/10
Service 7.5/10
FPJ score 21.5/30
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