Amidst rising interest rates and geopolitical uncertainty, the cost of eating out can feel exorbitant and unsustainable. In this blog, I will introduce a cute bar/restaurant and a cost-effective way to dine out without breaking the bank. Happy reading!
It’s tough being a foodie these days with the rising cost of living, recent interest rate hike, and geopolitical uncertainty that feels ominous and persistent. However, we can’t just put life on hold, and I’m a strong believer that one should still enjoy what one loves despite circumstances beyond one’s control. If you love dining out but don’t love the price tag, try booking on ‘First Table’, an app which allows you to dine at a range of Sydney restaurants (CBD and suburbs) with 50% off the total food bill (noting there is usually a booking fee of $10 and conditions with the offer, such as ordering one drink per guest). First Table brought me to Cardea, a cute cocktail bar with live music in Barangaroo. Keep reading to find out what I thought of the food and drinks.
Drinks
Cardea is a live music and burlesque lounge with a dark and seductive vibe that’s embodied in the signature cocktail menu. Each cocktail is aptly named after an Act in a performance with unique names. I tried ‘ACT IV – Notes From Underground’ featuring Coconut Tequila Infused Basil · Thyme · Pineapple · Lime. Finished with Pineapple Leaf, and it was a delicious blend of sweet with a touch of acidity from the pineapple and lime. If you are a fan of sweet cocktails with a twist, this would be a great match for you!
Food
Croquettes are probably not new to you, but have you tried a Brazilian croquette stuffed with chicken and cream cheese, topped with this umami pink sauce? This croquette was perfectly moreish with a balanced proportion of cheese and chicken; every bite was delicious and flavourful. Highly recommend this starter if you dine at Cardea.
The most wholesome part of our evening was when the waitress accidentally served us two chicken sliders intended for the bar staff. She apologised profusely for her error and decided to give us the sliders for free. This just proves that good hospitality and service are priceless! The pork belly baos were umami and encased within a pillowy soft white bun. The chicken sliders are the perfect two-biter if you are feeling peckish. The combination of pickles, spicy mayo, and American cheese makes this reminiscent of a classic American cheeseburger, just replace the beef with chicken.
I’ll never say no to a good burrata and prosciutto combo. This is a cold dish, so it’s very hard for restaurants to go wrong. On the flip side, since there’s no cooking involved, it’s painfully evident when restaurants skimp on quality. Cardea made no compromises on quality, pairing 24-month San Daniele prosciutto with fresh burrata, cherry tomatoes, rocket, and a balsamic reduction. I only have two words for this one – ‘Chef’s kiss’.
Final thoughts
You may be fooled into thinking that Cardea was merely a cocktail lounge offering live music and burlesque shows. The food we had was restaurant quality, and I appreciated the friendly service as well. Though the menu featured largely share plates and finger food, the umami moreishness of the dishes made an impact on my taste buds. If you are around Barangaroo, please give Cardea a go, you won’t be disappointed!
*Note this dining experience was booked via First Table, a restaurant discovery app that offers 50% off your total food bill with a small booking fee and some conditions.
For more information, see: https://www.firsttable.com.au/
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