Alibi Plant-Based Restaurant Opens in Woolloomooloo

When you make your way towards Alibi Restaurant past the reception desk at Ovolo Hotel in Woolloomooloo, and past the long oval bar you may find yourself asking, “where’s the restaurant?”

Looking around, you’ll see an eclectic mix of cosy lounges, modern furnishings in vibrant colours, bar seating and share tables, and you’ll reaslise that you’re standing in it.

Alibi Restaurant is headed by renowned US plant-based chef, restaurateur and global plant-based dining pioneer, Matthew Kenney whose first venture in Australia brings a seasonal, colourful and innovative menu designed to share alongside a cocktail and wine programme. Kenney has pioneered his plant-based cuisine and philosophy via his restaurants, cookbooks and entrepreneurial pursuits. Along with Ovolo Hotels Group Executive Chef, Kasper Christensen, (ex Quay and Noma Sydney), he will continue to develop the seasonal menu.

Beetroot Beatbox

The vegan ethos translates to the cocktails with a predominantly plant-focused cocktail list. There is an abundance of botanicals, fruit and vegetables such as the Beetroot Beatbox which combines dark rum, chocolate and freeze-dried beetroot with aquafaba and walnut oil while Enchanted Forest cocktail involves an infusion of fresh Portobello mushrooms and absinthe foam made from green apples. For an in-depth feature of the cocktails at Alibi with Bar Manager David Green, refer to last week’s article.

The wine list, by former sommelier of the year and wine book author, Chris Morrison, focuses on a section of smaller producers from Australia and overseas as well as popular wineries. The wines have been chosen for their drinkability, value and on-trend styles or varietals. A focus on owner/operator producers shares Alibi’s own philosophy of sourcing local, sustainable and seasonal where possible.

Sprouted Chickpea Hummus, Harissa, Za’atar Crackers

Alibi’s signature dishes include Kimchi Dumplings with Sesame and Ginger Foam, Heirloom Tomato and Zucchini Lasagna with Pistachio Pesto and a fun-take on the Roman classic pasta, Cacio e Pepe, with Kelp Noodles and Crispy Olives. Hibiscus Strawberry Cheesecake with Lime Curd, Vanilla Shortbread and a Sorrel Gel, plus a deconstructed Tiramisu with Frozen Almond Chantilly rounds off the dessert menu.

Spicy Udon

Bar snacks include Smoked Hummus with Fried Chickpeas, Harissa and Za’atar Lavash or Steamed Buns with Smoked King Oyster Mushrooms, Cashew Hoisin and Pickled Cucumber.

Alibi Restaurant & Bar opened to the public on Thursday 22 March 2018 and operates Tuesday to Friday for dinner with lunch and dinner service on Saturday.

Alibi Restaurant
Ovolo Woolloomooloo
6 Cowper Wharf Road Roadway
Woolloomooloo
Phone: +61 2 9331 9000
Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 6pm to midnight; Saturday, 12pm to midnight

Photo Credit: Supplied