Lorraine’s

The Verdict

If you’ve already worked your way through Waverley’s foodie strip of Bronte Road (like Ruby’s Diner, the Waverley Kebab House, and Bellagio Cafe), you’re going to want to know all about the buzzing suburb’s newest addition—Lorraine’s.

Taking reign over the Carrington and Bronte Road apex, Lorraine’s has set up shop upstairs at the famed watering hole known as The Robin Hood. While the ground floor is still a spot for VBs on tap and a sling of crafties to work your way through, the upstairs of this historic weekend haunt has been given a multi-million dollar renovation worthy of your weeknights now too.

Designed by H&E Architects and Design Miss M interiors, the vibe at Lorraine’s looks like an atrium-style bistro. Filled with natural sunlight, it glows during the day, but gets low-lit and a touch moody after the sun goes down. You’ll find two separate function areas, an art deco fit-out with hardwood floors, marble accents, and the added feature of a primo wine room with over 200 unique wines including back vintages (might we remind you, this is in the heart of Waverley).

On the feasting side of things, you’ll find Michelin-trained chef, Clement Marchais (who you know as the former executive chef at Peppe’s Bondi) in charge of the menu, which has also been overseen by legendary restaurant consultant Phillip Davenport.

The result is a menu filled with charcoal goods, grazing dishes, and a heap of vegetarian and vegan fare you’ll go mad for. The highlight of the menu is a surprising one but bear with us—a charcoal leek plate-up of hazelnut and truffle vinaigrette. Order it and prepare to have your tastebuds completely blown away. On top of this, the cheese croquettes are a big standout, as is the octopus, which gets served up with harissa and potato aioli.

Another unexpected must is the grilled savoy cabbage pummelled with sour cream, pickled raisins, and macadamia, and, look, to top off your entire feasting, you seriously have to opt-in for the dark chocolate mousse, which is all the very best of your childhood chocolate memories rolled into one dessert goblet.

Image credit: Lorraine's