Anise

I was nervous about sitting at the bar to dine. I thought that it might be uncomfortable; or that it could take the romance out of the evening, it was, after all, a special occasion to be celebrated with my partner. However, when I saw the dim lights and sparkling clean wine glasses set out; and glanced at the several large chalk boards filled with all types of wines I'd never heard, then spotted the groovy couch occupied by some trendy young New Farmian type ladies, and was mellowed and by the temperate music and hum of gentle chatter, I relaxed and became excited for the night ahead and for the culinary experience that awaited me at Anise the European/French wine bar and restaurant.

We were greeted by what I presume was the owner or manager of Anise. He was originally from Tasmania and this was reflected by the influence of Tasmanian Beer and Wine on the list. We accepted the offer of a beverage while we perused our menus. I chose a glass of bubbly form the Loire Valley in France which was light and fluffy almost with a hint of Vanilla (well that's what I thought anyway but I assure you, I am NO connoisseur). I was delicious to say the least. My partner had a Tasmanian Cascade Larger.  We decided, since it was Bastille Day, to chose the Degustation Menu with a special French Twist, and matched wine.

Over the course of the evening (which lasted 3.5 hours), we were served delicate, delicious food and wine which was explained to us by the young waitress at each course. It included a creamy garlic Escargot with a glass of French bubbly, an amazing seafood platter, perfectly matched with a sweet and surprisingly delightful white muscat, some tasty Mushroom Gnocci with a sauvignon blanc and then something I thought quited different, but apparently not for the French, Foie Gras ice cream with a sweet dense bread and caramelised onion matched with a light red. We enjoyed a palate cleanser and then the main dish of perfectly cooked lamb, beautifully presented, matched with a smooth Cabernet Merlot and to finish a silky syrupy dessert wine and Creme Brulee and Parfait.  Not quite ready to end the night, we opted for a glass of whisky. Three bottles were placed in front of us, my partner choosing Jameson I think and I chose a twelve year old Single Malt to cap the night.

I thoroughly enjoyed my night at Anise and am so glad we chose the Degustation Menu. It gave me the opportunity to try some food and wine that I had both never had the chance to experience before and/or never normally chose myself. The service was friendly and relaxed,  adding to the warm experience, and the food and wine was tantalising. I highly recommend Anise for dinner and in particular for a special occasion. Thank you Anise for making our night one to remember.