“Here it is” is one translation of the Italian e’cco, and that’s the philosophy behind the food at this award-winning bistro. It serves simple food, done exceptionally well and with passion. In a former tea warehouse on the city fringe, it’s one of Australia’s best. Dishes include such delights as chermoula spiced lamb with eggplant and tomato chutney and minted sour cream, or salmon poached in tomato, chilli, and lemon-grass broth with crab ravioli and mussels.
The bistro is enormously popular, and bookings are essential. Large windows, bold colors, and modern furniture make it a pleasant setting in a small but popular restaurant enclave. The price structure is simple (each course’s offerings are all the same price), and there’s an extensive wine list — many by the glass. You can bring your own wine; the corkage fee is A$5.50 (US$4.40) per bottle.