Sydney will soon welcome a new wine bar to the Surry Hills neighbourhood, which aims to bring a more casual experience to the dining landscape. “We’re not fluffing – it’s just super tasty food,” says Co-Owner Josh Raine.
40 Res is the first business venture from Raine, who is the former executive chef of Tetsuya’s. He’s recruited Michael Tran as head chef, who joins after time at The Bellevue and Clove Lane.
The pair have both spent time in Michelin-star kitchens in the UK, and have put together a launch menu inspired by their travels as well as their roots. “Growing up in Oxford, there are a few dishes that speak to my heritage,” says Raine. “I grew up eating fish finger sandwiches with mayonnaise, so we’re reimagined them with pil pil sauce.”
Dishes are mostly designed to share at 40 Res, giving diners the option to drop in for a snack or sit down for a whole meal. “We take a fine-dining mentality when it comes to refinement, but bring it into a more casual, accessible setting,” says Tran.
While the chef team tout the space as casual, the cooking is anything but – cacio e pepe has been reworked with foam in place of the traditional egg mixture. “It’s just as indulgent, but lighter,” says Tran, who promises pasta and risotto as menu mainstays as well as two larger protein options.
The beverage program largely focuses on wine, with drops from smaller, boutique producers listed on the menu.
40 Res opens at 40 Reservoir Street on 20 March and will trade Thursday to Saturday from 6pm until late. Bookings are now open and walk-ins are welcome.
