This consistently well-run and welcoming restaurant in a funky building packs locals in for crowd-pleasing meals, with excellent host co-owner Karen Prichard, overseeing the dining room in this historic former Salvation Army Citadel, The Social Kitchen has a cosy, character filled atmosphere that’s ideal for groups or smaller parties. The walls are filled with classy memorabilia and both bar staff and chefs cook in view of the diners. Chef Blair Clement is the culinary force here and his food philosophy is simple: “don’t mess with a good product”. He lets quality ingredients speak for themselves, sourcing locally wherever possible. The Mibrasa charcoal oven, which brings out the natural flavours of every ingredient is central to his cooking. The menu is designed for sharing – and being in the midst of a farming region, the beef (beef cheeks, slow braised beef shoulder, and Black Angus picanha with chimmichuri) is guaranteed to be good. For something lighter, a selection of small plates and interesting vegetable dishes can be shared.
