Inside the new Chifley's Bar and Grill in Canberra

Chef Mick Chatto (Photo: Chifley's Bar & Grill)

Canberra's getting a throwback to 1920s dining as Chifley's Bar and Grill opens in the historic Hotel Kurrajong in Barton.

There'll be 18 different cuts of steak, tuna tartare, and blini with beluga caviar in a dining room that has echoes of an art deco era with angular chandeliers and banquette seating.

Chef Mick Chatto, formerly of Italian & Sons and Artespresso, is at the helm, alongside sommelier Catherine Sharland, formerly of Rockpool in Perth.

He said the restaurant was nearly booked out for its opening week and he was looking forward to getting on with the job after a trial run on Friday.

"There are butterflies in the belly at this time of the opening and if you're going to have any issues it will be now," he said.

Chifley's features an extensive steak menu with Cape Grim black angus, David Blackmore and Shio Kin wagyu. 

"We do have an a la carte which is classic style with blinis and caviar and a couple of lobster dishes, very classical cuisine. It's a look back at the older dining style ... with classic clean flavours," Chatto said.

The reopening of the restaurant is part of a multimillion-dollar refurbishment of the Hotel Kurrajong, which is opening 45 rooms in its first week.

Chatto said Chifley's would provide room service and "communal dining" catering packages. 

The restaurant will do a big Christmas lunch and will remain open throughout the holiday period.

See chifleysbarandgrill.com.au

Source : Canberra Times    Natasha Rudra   December 16th 2014