NUBIA welcomes Nicole—the newest addition to our team of foodies. I’m a NYC -born and raised foodie, who is passionate about healthy eating and living. I love dining out and have a special talent for always ordering the best-tasting dish on the menu! I balance my indulgences with time in the gym and I believe that there’s no better way to splurge than on a truly delicious meal.
A TASTE OF DOWN UNDER WITHOUT THE AIRFARE
by Nicole M.
There’s a new reason to visit the Upper West Side, with the addition of The Sunburnt Calf, a casual dining spot, where attractive and friendly staff serve up affordable and tasty fare, while dishing tidbits of information about the Australian origins of each dish.
This three-floor eatery has 80 seats, two floors and an upstairs balcony perfect for breezy summer nights. My guest and I were seated in the “Uluru Atrium” back dining room, which is decorated with murals of the famous Australian Uluru Rock and makes you feel as if you’ve just stepped into the Outback.
While browsing the menu, start with one of the many fun and inventive cocktails like “Moo Juice”, “Moo Tinis” and “Moo Jitos”. The Moo Juice is served in baby bottles but don’t let the look fool you, these drinks pack a punch. My Sunburnt Moo Juice, a vibrant pink blend of passionfruit infused tequila and fresh strawberries, was fruity and delicious. The Oasis Moo Tini (Suza tequila, strawberry, watermelon, blackberry, pineapple and lime) arrives with a shot of Tequila housed in a delicate flower carved out of lime rind.
The savory appetizers, from Calamari served with jalapeno kiwi salsa to a mix and match trio of spicy beef skewers, Balinese spiced chicken and chili shrimp tempura, pair perfectly with the sweet drinks. For a filling main course try the Steak Diane, which is served with a rich gravy, thick French fries, and garlic Parmesan tossed broccoli. For a lighter fare, the flaky Grilled Barramundi is delightful with wispy thin shoestring potatoes and a refreshing basil tomato salad. My favorite dish by far is the Calf Salad, which is made with incredibly moist and tender chunks of marinated veal, beets, goat cheese, citrus, and frisee. It’s not to be missed. For dessert, our waiter suggested two Australian classics, Pavlova (a meringue-like whipped cream and fresh fruit topped cake) and Lamington (sponge cake coated with chocolate and coconut flakes). Both are sinfully rich and satisfying.
The Sunburnt Calf is perfect for a girl’s night out to birthday celebrations. The $25 Counter meal is your best bet and gets you an appetizer, entrée and dessert. Portions are generous and can easily be shared. Sit at the bar and down some of the yummy house-made fruit-infused vodka before heading out for the night or check out their Endless Brunch (11am – 4pm, Sat & Sun) where $18 gets you a brunch entrée and all you can drink cocktails. Enjoy the meal, mate!
