You must try this place!! Here’s why:

I first came across this restaurant with a difference a few months ago, however, this weekend was finally the time to give it a go, and I’m disappointed I waited so long! Expecting a fairly standard Sunday Dinner menu option I booked ahead and arrived to find out that Vice & Virtue had recently been through a refurbishment and change of concept, reopening that weekend in fact.

Without giving too much away (I wouldn’t want to spoil your surprise), the restaurant offers something a little different for the city, providing a sophisticated, Art Deco themed experience for Diners. Connor, our excellent waiter, explained that the previous menu included tasting experiences which could be up to 15 courses long, taking 3 hours or so to finish in some cases. However, after their recent refurb and slight change in focus, he advised me that they are now concentrating on a more refined set of tasting menus but still have plenty or variety to keep diners interested!

The choices cover 5, 6, and 7 course set menus that showcase locally sourced produce in a formal and elegant way. Some examples of dishes on offer are; Rabbit & Marjoram Dumpling, Wood Pigeon, Line Caught Cod etc and all menus are seasonal and vary from time to time. You will also have the chance to try out a complimentary Amuse Bouche course. As well as a tasting menu, you also have the choice of a Complimenting classic drinks or Signature drinks package where you can enjoy especially paired drinks to suit your course.

We were very impressed with all of the food that we had the chance to try, which was cooked and presented to perfection and packed full of flavour and character. Every little detail really does go into each course here, and it really pays off!

Here’s what we were lucky to try:

Amuse Bouche – Eclair (with Yorkshire Blue Cheese) | Chicken Liver Parfait | Black Pudding Maccaroon.

Salt Baked Celeriac – Truffle Sauce, Hazelnut, Capers

Torched Mackerel – Cucumber, Buttermilk Snow, Dill, Rapeseed

Venison – Parsnip, Kale, Pedro Ximenez, Golden Raisin

Line Caught Cod – Artichoke, Garlic Gravy

Blackberry & Almond Tart – Raspberry Sorbet, Basil Caviar

Burnt White Chocolate Ice Cream – Dandilian Burdock Mirangue

Vice & Virtue feels like a fairly sophisticated restaurant, but isn’t too formal and has a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. This would be a fantastic venue for a date, work party, or special occasion. I would highly recommend you give this place a try, this is Fine Dining level food and service and I will definitely be going back for more. Check out their website here for more information.

If you do decide to dine here, then please share your pictures and comments with me across Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Jen

@jensfoodblog