Botherambo

On a cold rainy night, we tucked ourselves in Botherambo’s utilitarian yet warm space for a banquet feast as we tried some new items on their menu. Complemented by a number of signature cocktails, the night was entertaining and very tasty!

We started with the Spanner Crab Betel Leaf, a refreshing crab dish served with pickles, cucumber pomelo and nut crumble. We sipped the Rambamatico all the while, with Diplomatico rum the alcohol of choice, a citrus­ delight with mandarin providing some surprising flavours in a cocktail!

We continued with the entrees, having the Rare Seared Waygu Beef and Kingfish Hiramasa Cevice. Some great Asian ­infused flavours in these dishes, with the beef being cooked perfectly. We also had the Yellow Fin Tuna, served with some spicy chilli flavours to give a good kick. The pickled cucumbers and crunchy lotus root chips gave some different textures to the dish as well. Our bellies beginning to full, mains were brought out. At this time, we had one of our all ­time ­ yes, all­ time ­ favourite cocktails, the Muay Thai. A gin­ based cocktail, this signature drink balances some sweet flavours with citrus and spice, which is attributed to the peppercorn. Absolutely delicious ­ we know you’re supposed to sip cocktails, but we couldn’t help downing it quickly! We were fortunate to try three of Botherambo’s signature mains ­ the Slow & Low Pork Belly, Crying Tiger and Murray Cod & Beef Cheek. The pork belly cooked for 8 hours, it had a great compliment of fat and meat, with the super crisp crackle providing some great texture.

We also very much enjoyed the Beef cheek, also slow cooked (you’re starting to get the idea we love slow cooked meats...) with the beef served with a silky rich sauce. Have this with some rice to balance the rich flavours.

At this point we were well and truly full, but could not stop ourselves from indulging in the Couverture Chocolate Custard and White Chocolate Lemon Chiboust. My personal favourite was the chocolate custard, served with black pepper and very chewy chocolate shortbread!

All in all, an incredible night of food and drinks. Be sure to check out some of the above dishes (and cocktails!) at Botherambo, conveniently located at 65 Swan Street, adjacent to the Corner Hotel.

Location: 65 Swan St, Melbourne VIC 3121

Phone: (03) 9428 9730

Link:  www.botherambo.com.au/