Papi Chulo

The verdict

Harbourside smokehouse and grill Papi Chulo claims to change the way you think about barbecued food, and we can certainly attest that it honours the traditions that the cooking style is known and loved for while making it feel modern and relevant to the Australian lifestyle. The Merivale-owned restaurant opened in 2013 and smokes its marinated meats over wood for a minimum of six hours, creating a pit barbecued flavour reminiscent America's deep south restaurants. If red meat isn't your thing there are also lighter, South American bites like ceviche, charred seafood and seasonal salads. Pair with a cocktail and enjoy the sparkling view.