IGNI

IGNI holds the Gourmet Traveller Regional Restaurant of the Year award and also The Age Good Food Guide Regional Restaurant of the Year.

Much of this acclaim can be credited to IGNI's head chef, Aaron Turner (The Age Good Food Guide's Chef of the Year), who having acquired his culinary skills from the world’s very best kitchens – those of Denmark’s Noma and Spain’s El Celler De Can Roca to be precise - brings his gastronomical mastery to this sleek restaurant in Geelong's CBD.

The unparalleled hospitality provided, and congenial atmosphere created, by the front of house team, including Loam's Andrew Hamilton and Joanna Smith, and new recruit Gareth Burnett (Woodland House), are mere bonuses. 

IGNI's focus is on the open kitchen's charcoal grill with a menu based on conversations had with guests. The menu is fresh and novel, consisting of a list of ingredients rather than a selection of dishes. Diners discuss their preferences, leaving the chef with an array of produce to use at his discretion. 

Our favourite course from the degustation was the Marron, macadamia and nasturtium. The dish deliciously celebrated the subtle sweetness of the marron with the creamy hues from the macadamia brightened by the peppery nasturtium.

The pork belly, carrot and emu bush was yet another notable dish, made particularly memorable by the rehydrated (previously dehydrated) carrot which boasted a beautiful flavour that worked wonders with the pork.

Dessert was similarly well devised. Onion gelato was served with a quinoa crisp and honey comb. Both interesting and absolutely divine.  

With daring flavour combinations that excite and entice along with exceptional service, IGNI is certainly capable of providing a memorable dining experience.

Location: 2 Ryan Place, Geelong
Phone: 5222 2266
Link: www.restaurantigni.com