Forget about bloomin’ onions: Sample food that real Australians would recognize when you spend an evening at a private three-course dinner at Oz, the Washington area’s first authentic Australian restaurant.
Meet executive chef Brad Feickert, whose culinary background includes a stint at Bryan Voltalggio’s celebrated Volt and several years working in Australia. Hear him discuss his menu inspirations, which include both classic Australian dishes and contemporary variations. Dana Robertson, public affairs counsellor with the Embassy of Australia, speaks throughout the evening on the country’s food and customs.
The Clarendon restaurant’s design takes its cue from an outback country house, with areas echoing an ivy-covered veranda, living room (with ceiling lights in the shape of the Southern Cross), and back porch. The main dining room feature works by a noted contemporary aboriginal artist, and copper mesh has been sculpted into a wall of rolling hills in a lounge that reflects a windswept desert landscape.
The restaurant is open exclusively to Smithsonian patrons for the evening. Arrive early and enjoy a drink at the bar.
Ticket includes three-course dinner and one glass of wine.
Menu
Appetizers
Aussie Caesar (romaine, bacon, poached egg, croutons)
Beetroot Caprese (beet, tomato, basil, mozzarella, sherry poppy-seed dressing)
Kangaroo Skewer (berry marinade, onion, mushrooms, tomato, pineapple)
Rissole Egg (ground beef, pork, 6-minute egg)
Entrees
Hazelnut-Crusted Hake (roasted cauliflower, wilted spinach, ginger-cauliflower puree
Rack of Australian Lamb (shallots, roasted potatoes, minted peas)
Crumb Steak (prosciutto-wrapped chicken, broccolini, mushrooms, almonds, sweet potato puree
Ribeye (maple-glazed sweet potatoes, crispy spinach, green tomato and apple chimichurri)
Eggplant Parma (Swiss béchamel, marinara, spinach, toasted sourdough)
Desserts
Avo Shake (avocado, cinnamon, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce)
Pavlova (meringue, mixed berries, passion fruit, whipped cream)
Chocolate Oz (chocolate, caramel, vanilla ice cream)
