Cookie - Melbourne CBD

Date: Friday 23rd October 2009

Restaurant: Cookie

Address: First Floor, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD

Phone: 03 9660 7663

Commentary : Sarah Andrew

It would be fair to say that since opening in 2001, Cookie has become somewhat of an institution. The venue serves many purposes and from the end of the day through to close it is always busy! There is a certain vibe about the place and despite the noise (best to be avoided for a romantic first date) is one to keep on your radar for a bite to eat, serious get together with friends or a place of choice for a few evening beverages.

My recent dining experience was with two companions who also work in the wine industry. We periodically meet for lunch to talk shop and enjoy a good meal. It goes without saying that wine is involved!

Cookie has over 70 small, medium and large dishes on the menu. To get the most out of this selection it is best to order a number of different sized plates and share. That is just what we did with the following:

□ mussel cake with green papaya & cashew salad (small dish)

□ tapioca dumplings with pickled turnip, pork & peanuts (small dish)

□ deep fried pork belly with red curry kaffir lime & beans (medium dish)

□ soured snapper wings with tomato, onion, coriander & chili salad (large dish)

The pick for me was definitely the snapper wings. The flavor and texture was something to experience.

Bubbles was the choice of beverage with NV D.O Cava Musa de Vallformora and 2008 Prosecco DOCG “Vigneto Giardino” Adami Valdobbiadine. It was a nice touch to receive the Prosecco in the old fashioned champagne glasses (the ones with the shorter stem and wide bowl). These were filled to the brim, presenting a challenge with the first sip of not spilling. Don’t get me wrong, I was not complaining!

I would definitely go back again, as the wine list is extensive and interesting. On that note so too is the food menu, as four dishes does not even scratch the surface!