Note: I was invited to dine at Alcove, however all opinions are my own.
Have you heard about Alcove? It’s a cosy little bar in Braddon and it has introduced a new concept of 5 canapés matched with cocktails. I am invited to experience Alcove’s new season menu and take a friend along. There’s no signage out on the street so I’m kind of panicking that I’ve gotten the address incorrect. Nope, I’m at the right spot. I decide to walk down a driveway to see if it’s hidden somewhere at the back, and there it is.
Inside, there are a few tables and three comfy circular booths. It looks like a good space for couples or small groups as there’s not that much space. Unfortunately I did not advise them that I wanted mocktail versions of the cocktails (as I don’t drink alcohol). Alcove’s mocktails require preparation so they could not offer me this option. I went ahead with the cocktail option for photos, and also took a sip of each. So take note, if you want the mocktail version – let them know in advance.
Course 1 – Elixir of the Sea – A lychee oolong gin is served with what looks like an oyster. But there’s no oyster inside, it’s actually oyster-flavoured ice cream! If you like oysters, this is a really smooth and cold starter – a mix of floral and mineral. I’m surprised that I really like the cocktail. The oolong –infused Roku gin is very light and really only noticeable towards the end after swallowing a sip. I love the taste of sweet but not too sweet lychee. A fabulous start!
Course 2 – Celestial umami – This chawanmushi is divine and comforting with hints of yuzu, pepper and pickled carrot. The matching cocktail is transparent but is actually made from tomato which has been clarified mixed with Larios Mediterranean gin, honey, saffron and citrus.
We receive warm bread and butter each before the next course.
Course 3 – Essence of Life – The wagyu beef tart is diced mixed with kohlrabi and avocado. The tart itself is a crispy buttery shell. The whole thing reminds me of a meat pie. The matching cocktail is a lavender, apple, sake and Laphroaih 10 year old whiskey topped with sparkling water.
Course 4 – The Philosopher’s Stone – Harry Potter fans will notice the golden snitch looking macaron on the plate. I’m told to eat this in one bite which is easy to do. Flavours of salsa, chilli and Mexican spices from this little morsel. The grilled chicken taco is a little more filling and I love the marinated sauce. The matching cocktail looks so tropical made of jackfruit, Koyomi Shochu, wine, absinthe and soy milk. The flavours are not for me but I do eat all the honey crisp flakes on top.
Course 5 – Fiery Gold – Our last course is dessert. A delicious cake of pumpkin, cream, sweet potato and coconut. The matching cocktail is a mulled wine of chai, chardonnay, citrus cognac and orange. I love this dessert!
See my Instagram reel of the experience below.
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My friend and I both absolutely loved every single course. I’m disappointed that I couldn’t try the matching mocktail versions, but that is purely my own fault. I think the mocktails would be amazing! The sips of each cocktail definitely paired well with each canapé. The 5 course canapés and matching cocktails are $128 per person. The menu has 7 courses so perhaps you get to choose which 5 you would like to have. When I ask about prices for the mocktail versions, a rough figure of $110-$120 is given but best to check with Alcove.
It’s a great concept and you’re not too full at the end. Perfect for a cosy intimate date where you want to impress. Bookings essential.
Alcove
105/16 Lonsdale St, Canberra
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