It’s date night and I’m waiting for my date in the beautifully appointed lobby bar at the Sebel Pier One on the Sydney Harbour foreshore.
So far my date is 20 minutes late, but that’s okay because I have a glass of Moet, a bowl full of marinated olives and a rather exquisite selection of nibbles to keep me company. Freshly shucked oysters, duck pancakes and fried white anchovies with miso mayonnaise.
It’s a beautiful Sydney summer afternoon so I’m quite happy to sit here and gaze at the Harbour, and let all thoughts of the working week slide out of my head.
The hotel is heaving – there appears to be two weddings and a number of corporate groups being catered tonight, but the service is efficient and there seems to be enough room to accommodate everyone without the place seeming too crowded.
My date does eventually turn up to share the olives and what’s left of the ‘share-plate’ before we head to the Front Restaurant for more food.
I’ve been recommended the Scallops, Pork Cheek Gow Gee with black vinegar dressing to start with. In fact I was told the scallops were so good I’d want to ditch my date and marry the chef. I selflessly let my date order the scallops and luckily he didn’t ditch me. They were divine though (yes I DID get to taste), “just the right amount of coriander and saffron”.
The main doesn’t disappoint either – I opt for the beef fillet, he opts for duck, quaffed down with a delightful shiraz, followed by a delicious cheese platter accompanied by Remy Martin before waddling up to our room.
The room overlooks the Walsh Bay (which is still looking good at 10pm) and it’s beautifully decorated in light airy colours. The bed is possibly the largest I’ve ever seen and is so comfortable I could fall asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow. It comes with my highest recommendation.
The hotel has some fantastic packages available, including Endota Spa Relaxation packages, Weekend Escapes and Honeymoon packages. Luxury here is surprisingly affordable.
