There’s nothing like a special bottle of wine to mark an occasion. Whether you hauled it back from the Barossa a few years ago or work gave you a few bottles instead of a bonus, there are a few gems in everyone’s wine collection that just can’t be cracked open with Monday night’s spaghetti bolognese.
That’s when ‘Raid Your Cellar’ night steps in. On a Tuesday night every month Summer Hill’s One Penny Red holds the ultimate BYO night.
We’re not talking about bringing in a brown paper bag and sheepishly handing it over to the waiter. On this night bottles of wine are reverently carried into the restaurant in wine bags, handbags, even under armoured guard – ok, just kidding about that last one. Seriously though, while they do see a few very nice bottles of Grange, most diners bring in small, boutique wines they’ve picked up in the past or a blend of something different.
As the name suggests, the restaurant wants you to raid your cellar. You bring in a bottle of wine (or two) and the team puts together a four course meal to match. They’ll choose a few of the best suited dishes off their menu and you won’t be disappointed.
From smokey eggplant and goats feta crostini to melt-in-your-mouth confit duck leg, the dishes are generous and delicious, with a focus on fresh local produce. Chef RJ Lines, sommelier David Murphy and host Nina Alidenes run a very tight ship. With One Penny Red just about to celebrate its first birthday, there’s already a strong local following, with evenings booking up fast.
Housed in Summer Hill’s original post office that dates back to 1900, One Penny Red is bright and white, with character in spades. Sitting side by side in banquet seats along the curved walls with a bottle of red and a four course meal to match has to be one of winter’s simple pleasures. A lemon crème brulee tart is the cherry on top.
Wine not your thing? The gin menu is definitely worth perusing, as is the regular menu, served downstairs in the restaurant and upstairs where a lighter bar menu is available.
Raid Your Cellar Night
30th June, 28th July, 25th August, 29th September, 27th October, 24th November
$70 per person
Bookings essential
One Penny Red
2 Moonbie St, Summer Hill NSW 2130
(02) 9797 8118
www.onepennyred.com.au
Photos by: One Penny Red
