The Waldorf on London has been a feature of Canberra’s inner-city life for 15 years. With a consistent trade and friendly professional service, it’s little wonder then that their dining room has been busy all that time.
And with good reason; The Waldorf, as a bar/café and restaurant that also services the always-busy apartments upstairs, has a finely tuned menu designed to ensure the best experience no matter what time of day you might choose to dine.
The lunch menu, for example, has a great range of sandwiches that can are perfect for those with not too much time. Arranged into light and delicious wraps – or more hearty open sandwiches, there is something for anyone.
Chargrilled Spatchcock served with asparagus, cherry tomato, roasted kipflers and basil pesto is a sensational gluten free option – but so are so many of the options for main course. The presentation is simple – preparing the dish requires a degree of sensitivity. The caramel skin of the spatchcock contrasts nicely with the tomatoes and herbs.
Barramundi can prove a tricky dish to get right – as the subtle flavour of the fish is easily overrun. By panfrying, the skin crisps up while protecting the delicate flesh. Again, the kitchen shows its care, letting the fish mostly speak for itself with just a hint of salsa verde to cut through the olive oil mash.
Lamb Shanks certainly aren’t for the faint-hearted as the imposing bone dares you to embrace it club-like and chomp into the succulent meat. Good manners and refined surrounds may prevent you from doing so, but you’ll be more than pleased at the delicate inclusion of mint oil to bring forth the best of the meat’s flavours.
The dessert menu is tightly focussed while still showing breadth. The Chocolate and Blueberry Tart is a treat for the eyes, as vibrant purples and reds grace the plate. The accompanying blueberry mousse is deliciously light – making for the ideal palate cleanser.
The Waldorf’s wine list covers most of Australia’s key growing areas with a selection that is observant without being overly complex. There are four beers on tap, as well as a larger selection from within the fridge. Coffee and tea are available, with beans sourced from the Canberra Coffee Company.
While dinner is an absolute treat, there’s much more on offer. The Waldorf on London is open for breakfast every day – and not just for hotel guests! For inner–city dwellers, it’s an idea place to stop in and get your day underway, or the perfect place to fuel-up if you’re heading in to town for some shopping.
