You’ll find Executive Chef Tom Gorringe at one of Sydney’s finest-dining restaurants – Aria. The restaurant, owned by Matt Moran, is where Gorringe leads a seasonal kitchen – having stepped into the role after a stint at The Gantry – also owned by Moran where he ran the hatted restaurant and wine bar. It’s all about a paddock to plate philosophy; where high end is earthed at this iconic waterfront spot in Sydney.
Tom spoke to The Write Drop for our At the Bar series.
MY CITY
The diversity of cultures and the food that comes with it. I love getting out into the suburbs, whether it’s Harris Park for amazing Indian or Haberfield for traditional Italian delis – there are so many hidden gems to find.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
The carrot sorbet, yoghurt and liquorice dessert at Cafe Paci, such a well-balanced dish and a must-order every time I go.
FAVOURITE BAR
Fortunate Son Enmore is always a great time, super friendly staff and a great neighbourhood vibe. My go-to drink would generally be a Manhattan or an Americano. Classics for a reason.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
A Tom Collins, simple, straightforward and delicious.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Proper chip shop hot chips with copious amounts of chicken salt.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
I love the Apollo Inn in Melbourne, great drinks, delicious snacks, warm service and cool vibes. It feels very cosmopolitan.
OVERSEAS BAR
Sglow in Shibuya is amazing, great lemon sour cocktails, and the mentaiko mac and cheese is out-of-control good.
FAVOURITE WINE
Not exactly a wine, but something that my wife and I had on our wedding day and love to share with family and friends, Heiwa Shuzo Tsuru-ume Yuzushu, super refreshing and delicious.
FAVOURITE WINERY
Artemis in the Southern Highlands, NSW. I spent a good part of my apprenticeship in the Southern Highlands, so I have a lot of fond memories of the region, and the Close Vine Pinot at Artemis is excellent.
NEXT DESTINATION
Singapore for all of the hawker centres.
