On the menu:
Inspired by a nomadic way of life, the menu aims to take you on a seasonal journey round the world. With starters ranging from freshly shucked oysters ($5 each), to sardine bruschetta ($17) and provolone fondue (with chilli oil and charred bread - $16), you immediately feel the European vibe. From there, you can opt for entrees, which include kingfish sashimi ($19), beef tartare ($17) and lamb belly ($22), or jump straight to a main (which is what we did). The mains include standard risotto ($27), market fresh fish (POA) and scotch fillet ($40), alongside duck breast ($38), gnocchi ($32) and pork hock chonchinita ($32).
The buzz:
Nomad has an incredibly cool, big city vibe, but not in an intimidating way. With a dark, softly-lit cocktail bar separated by a glass wall from the dining area, it feels hip and warm. The fit-out is on trend, with themed pictures dotting the walls throughout, highlighted by approximately a thousand bare soft yellow bulbs. Customers ranged from business folk having an after-work drink, to family dinners and a few date nights. This is definitely not somewhere to take your kids.
I'll have:
We began with the special starter of the night, - toasted bread with a chorizo pate and cheese, drizzled with honeycomb and grilled till the cheese was soft and melty. For just $16, we had a slice each which was more than enough to give us a hint of the brilliant quality that was to come. While the wait for our main was just slightly too long for my empty belly, when my gnocchi with venison cheek, pecorino and gremolata did turn up, it was well worth the wait. The gnocchi was the best I've ever had - slightly sticky and chewy without being starchy or over-filling. The venison is cooked for 15 hours before serving, so it literally falls apart in your mouth. The only downside was the lack of vegetables, as we didn't order any sides (all of which are $9). For dessert I had the chipotle chocolate fondant with lime curd ($13), which was dense and rich with just the right hint of chilli.
He'll have:
My husband had the duck breast, with confit duck stuffed neck, mushrooms, winter berries and orange jus ($38). My lasting memory of this meal will be the look on his face as he took that first forkful of duck in his mouth. It was like watching someone be transported to another plane of existence. After savouring every last mouthful with a look of complete bliss, he followed it up with the rum cake with hot vanilla custard ($14). The cake was a generous slice, but there wasn't quite enough custard to match its size.
Value for money:
My meal was so great I actually returned for another go two days later, but with an altered approach. Wanting to try more of the menu, I ordered polenta fries with aioli and truffle oil to start ($9), then followed it with the lamb belly entree ($22) served on a smoked beetroot puree with pea bean smash and a side of brussel sprouts with goats feta and walnut crumble ($9). This was more than enough food and a way to get greater variety at a lesser price.
To drink: Where do I even start? The wine and beer list is extensive to say the least, with great variety. He ordered a lager for its unpronouncable name (Budejovicky budvar - $9) while I had a glass of Lake Hayes Pinot Noir for $12. Though really, you should start with a cocktail (about $17). The list is incredible.
The staff:
Very friendly and helpful. Our waitress was there when we needed her and more than happy to answer our questions about the bits of the menu we didn't understand. The staff here are clearly professionals who take pride in what they do. And it shows.
The verdict:
I cannot rave about Nomad enough. Not only was the quality of food and service miles above anything I've ever come across in the Bay before, but the decor and general vibe were also of an exceptional standard. This is going to become the regular place we take out-of-town visitors.
the details:
Restaurant: Nomad
Address: 62 The Strand (by Masonic Park)
Telephone: (07)777 0060
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11.30am till late
Licensed: Yes