If location is everything, then it’s hardly surprising that Sydney’s Four Seasons Hotel is one of the most popular in the city. With the Rocks and Circular Quay on its doorstep, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it’s all hustle and bustle, but from the outdoor pool deck, the sounds of the city simply fade away.
Nestled under a cabana is where I spend most of my stay in hotel, there seems little need to do anything else. The sun is shining and after a later than planned night at the bars under the Opera House, this is just what the doctor ordered. Even a mildly embarrassing run in with the hotel’s rapid response crew – apparently I had accidently hit the orange duress button when ordering lunch – can’t break the mood. On the plus side, they did arrive very quickly.
However, as lovely as lazing by the pool is, the main reason for being here is to try the hotel’s newest addition, Pei Modern. After the success of his first Pei Modern in Melbourne, Mark Best has taken is bistronomy restaurant to the Harbour City.
In a perfect pairing with the Four Seasons, guests can enjoy a Pei stay getaway, with a meal for two created for you by the kitchen, ensuring you get to sample the very of the seasonal produce on the menu. As my dining guest is a little fussy, we opt to order straight from the menu, which surprisingly, for the latest star on the restaurant scene, located in one of Sydney’s best hotels, it’s not the most expensive offering I’ve ever seen.
If your meal isn’t included as part of the hotel stay and you’re watching your wallet, you can still enjoy the experience by ordering a few snack and smaller bites. Or try it at lunchtime, when you can enjoy two courses and coffee for $39.
Again, the atmosphere is relaxed, something that isn’t always easy to pull off in a fine dining restaurant and is probably due largely to the kitchen being in full view. It’s sort of like dining a friend’s house.
And, if you’re not sure about what to choose, simply ask. The staff is only to happy to make recommendations and the sommelier can match your wine with your food. Another big plus is that some of the wines come in half bottles, so there’s no need to go to the expense of a full bottle.
I won’t bore you with what I had to eat, other than to say it really does live up to its reputation. Oh, but if you are lucky enough to make it there, save room for dessert – there’s a coconut sorbet that is simply delicious!
Your can Pei Stay at the Four Seasons until 28 December 2015 (Christmas dates excluded).
Or why not tickle your tastebuds with a look at Pei Modern’s menu?
