Sunday, May 14, 2006

Mother's Day: Oscar's Lounge Bar and Restaurant

Darling Harbour
It was an unusually warm autumn day in Sydney; the city was bathed in copious amounts of sunlight, bustling with people enjoying the most of these mild autumn days. The bright hues of the city were matched by the sunny disposition of most people in general. Today was of course Mother’s day and many were out to celebrate their mothers, with family and friends in tow.

Our outing took us to Oscar’s Lounge Bar and Restaurant on Union St in Pyrmont, less than a five-minute walk from Harbourside Shopping Centre and the Maritime Museum. Mum, as always wanted something low-key and relaxed so this place seemed rather appropriate as that it appeared contemporary yet unpretentious. The décor was contemporary; the enormous triangular light fixtures on the walls gave a slightly 70’s retro lounge feel to the whole place.
Mum had heard that Oscar’s were offering a Mother’s Day menu of $30pp for three courses or $25pp for two courses, so she thought it worthwhile to check out for the value alone. On arrival she found out that they also offered a free glass of champagne and a rose to all mothers, which she found thoughtful. The service was cheerful and attentive, although they got our drinks order confused with the table next to ours eventuating in an extra $40 being charged to our bill. Our waiter was extremely apologetic and ensured that the mix up was rectified immediately, so all was forgiven. Good, honest service always dispels any mistakes in my opinion, we’re all human.

Chicken Tenders

Parmesan and Herb Crusted Chicken Tenders on a Mixed Salad with Seeded Mustard and Basil Mayonaise.

Salmon

Pan Fried Salmon Fillet with Fresh Asparagus Spears and Hollandaise Sauce.

Chicken with Vegies

Chargrilled Chicken Breast with Slow Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables, Baby Spinach and Madeira Jus.

Lemon and Raspberry Souffle

Lemon and Raspberry Souffle

Lemon and Raspberry Souflle Chilled, served with Vanilla Ice Cream and Raspberry Coulis.

Overall, the food was typically reliable bar-style cuisine. The pan fried salmon was the standout of the day, fresh and seared to perfection. Oscar's is a great stop for a casual meal, servings are quite reasonable for the price; mains are around $20 and you could easily fill up within two courses. Their specialties include Aberdeen Angus Steaks, homestyle pastas and gourmet pizzas. If you're not hungry you could always stop by for some drinks at the lounge, Happy Hour starts at 5pm everyday.

Oscar's Bar and Restaurant

84 Union St
Pyrmont, Sydney

2 comments:

Audrey said...

Thanks for the review Jenjen. I pass this place every day on my cycle into work but have never stopped to go in. i must try it

Kat said...

You didn't mention the ribs! That's all I ever have at Oscar's. They're excellent value (though some people find the sauce too sweet). This is where my friends and I go when we want a big meal but it's one week before payday. :-)