A central, iconic location and easy-to-share dishes make Taxi Kitchen ideal for grabbing a bite to eat before a night out on the town.
This restaurant has got to be one of the most convenient meeting places in Melbourne. Located right in Federation Square, its location is pretty iconic. And as it sits on level one of Transport Hotel, it also offers 180-degree views of the CBD, Yarra River and Arts Precinct.
Divided up into small plates, medium plates, large plates, the menu is rustic, simple and playful. And the variety and style of the dishes makes them ideal for sharing. The vibe in the restaurant is upbeat but still chilled out – the bar downstairs is filled with people enjoying a drink, while the restaurant attracts those who are up for a meal, but are likely to finish the night off with a drink – or three.
If you’re an oyster fan, try their unique take on this popular starter – a ‘scorched’ oyster with salt and vinegar pork crackle. There’s just a hint of smokiness on the still-raw-in-the-centre oysters, which injects a great boost of flavour while still respecting the oyster’s delicate taste and texture. The crackle adds welcome crunch.
The poached veal dish from the medium plates section comprises super-silky slivers of poached veal with cornichon and miso mayo – even someone who’s not a veal fan could be converted with these oh-so tender slices of meat and moreish sauce.
Quail lovers have got to try the quail coated in a spicy salt and pepper rub. It packs a punch in the flavour department and comes with a slightly-sweet apple soy dipping sauce, which balances out your palate when combined with the smoky spice rub. Fish fans will love the crispy-skin Chatham Island blue cod, which is served with a creamy, Thai-influenced crab and coconut curry sauce.
If you’re game for a dessert, their famous espresso soufflé with Baileys and white chocolate ice-cream is an absolute winner. It’s beautifully presented and the soufflé is as light as air. Combine that with the indulgent ice-cream for a match made in dessert heaven.
TAXI KITCHEN
CUISINE: Modern Australian, Australian, European
ADDRESS: Transport Hotel, Federation Square, Flinders St Melbourne
PH: 9654 8808
HOURS: Tues – Sat 12pm – 11pm
WEBSITE: www.taxikitchen.com.au
FACEBOOK: Taxikitchen
INSTAGRAM: taxikitchen
TWITTER: @taxikitch