Behind the red front door, there’s a deli brimming with cured meats, cheese and tinned seafood. You’ll be perfectly content poised at the counter here, hefty mortadella sandwich in one hand, house-canned Martini in the other; however, it’s only one of your options. Climb the stairs and you’ll find the bistro, where Allie Webb prints and fish-shaped terrine moulds adorn the walls, and dishes are dialled up a notch. A sliced wagyu skirt steak sits atop a bed of anchovy-spiked mash and cogollos, wedges of cos topped with fat anchovies and garlicky sauce, is a fun take on a Caesar. Protein reigns supreme at Continental, both up and downstairs, but vegetables have their day, too. Roast pumpkin is lifted by a smoked maple vinaigrette and the panzanella is a salty mix of textures. Friendly service, fun cocktails and an approachable wine list across both levels guarantee you’ll have an enjoyable experience no matter where you sit.
This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide’s reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way.
Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide
Wine: ★
Gourmet Traveller’s star-ratings, which range from zero to three stars, reflect reviewers’ first-hand experiences. The best-rated restaurants form our national Top 100. Our wine ratings, from zero to three stars, are made by wine editor Max Allen on the strength of the quality of the restaurant’s wine list. View our rating key here.
