Firebird

The Verdict

Commune Group's dedicated open-grill diner, Firebird, is a fiery Vietnamese eatery driven by flame-focused cooking and punchy flavours.

You’ll notice several familiarities in the name, but the nod to the OG Hanoi Hannah extends far past just a title with that casual vibrance found across the venues and menus alike. A noticeable difference at Firebird, however, is the use of the grill almost exclusively—what has resulted is gloriously bold, unapologetic flavours across the menu.

The menu features a breadth of dishes that are equal parts playful yet considered, with flavour profiles exclusive to Firebird—just take the fire-roasted duck with pickled ginger and house-made Hoisin, if you need convincing.

What’s on offer certainly doesn’t let culinary traditions get in the way of a good time, but like all of Commune Group’s venues, there’s a certain refinement to everything they do. This can be found in the more delicate numbers like the scotch quail egg complete with a dousing of salted duck egg relish, and the grilled oysters topped with precisely the right amount of spring onion oil and ginger.

Over at the bar, you’ll find a drinks list that’s as pronounced as the food. Kick-off with a Firebird Highball, like a regular highball with rhubarb and a few other secrets, or go all out with the Firebird Lowball: Starward Two Fold Whiskey, Campari, Vietnamese coffee and flamed orange. Bloody yummy. 

Image credit: Firebird (supplied)