Mini Shitszu @ Dockside, Sydney CBD

Attended the wedding of Mr Shitszu's childhood play date and new wife at Dockside on the weekend. We arrived just in time for canapes on the balcony, with magnificent views overlooking the Cockle Bay Wharf. Canape offerings included curry puffs, spring rolls & flaky puffs. While the flavour and quality were barely above food court standards, it did line our stomachs adequately enough to justify a bubbly top up. We strategically positioned ourselves closest to the doors and was given more than our fair share of the deep fried goodies.

Bread basket

We were quickly ushered to move inwards as the wedding was about to start. The couple opted for a red and gold theme, quite fitting of their Chinese heritage. As we scrimmaged to find our allocated seating, my eyes were fixated on the antipasto platter and bread basket already present on each table.

Assorted antipasto platter

There was a good selection of white and brown bread rolls. I opted for a slice of the olive bread, as it was most exotic. The focus was definitely still on the antipasto, and it did not disappoint. The grilled eggplant was juicy and perfectly oiled as were the mushrooms and artichokes, although the standout was definitely the cheese which was crumbly, dense and creamy and I shamelessly helped myself to second and third nibbles.

King prawn, scallops and crabmeat tossed with peking noodles, sesame dressing and oak leaves

Starters were quickly followed by entrees and it was an alternating option of seafood noodle and salad of lamb. The fluffy noodles were well complicated by springy scallops and blanched enoki mushrooms, but overpowered by the sesame dressing.

Seared salad of lamb with sesame oil, red curry, thai mint, bitter greens and coriander chutney

The lamb salad was surprisingly refreshing and to our delight, not 'lamby' as we expected. The capsicum and bean sprouts added a crunchy texture and spicy zing, while the addictive, tangy coriander chutney tied the elements together.

Poached chicken breast on truffle infused pumpkin mash, creamed forest mushrooms, baby carrots & snow peas with chive infused chicken jus

Onto the main: the poached chicken breast was stacked on top a tower of pumpkin mash and sauted vegetables. Chicken of the poached variety is normally not my main of choice, and this dish really validated my loathing. The breast piece was very lean and dry, and the absence of a crispy outer skin really added to the struggle. Mr Shitszu is very PC so when he takes a few bites and pushes the plate away, I empathise with him completely; action really does speak louder than words. We are normally not the sort to waste food but barely finished half the dish between the two of us.

Roasted barramundi fillet on garlic and vegetale risotto with rockfish essence and coriander pesto

The barramundi was accompanied by a generous portion of mashed potatoes and creamy white sauce. The crispy skin was perfectly seasoned. I hesitated passing half the dish to Mr Shitszu as could have easily devoured the entire thing. Between the two mains, this was the obvious standout and we made no effort to hide our preferences in hope of securing rights to clean the plate.

Chocolate terrine with candied almonds, orange sorbet and chocolate sauce

Finally, dessert is served and the options look amazing. The chocolate terrine is rich and dense but the sweetness is perfectly balanced off by the dollop of cream with sprinkles of flaked nuts. The orange sorbet adds a citrusy punch and extra points go to the waffle cup for remaining crispy.  

Steamed banana pudding with butter scotch sauce with vanilla bean ice cream

The banana pudding was floury and the flavour was similar to Allens' Candy Bananas; artificial. The vanilla bean ice cream was smooth and creamy but did not hold its form so well. Overall a disappointing dish.

The location is hard to beat as a wedding venue, right in the centre of Sydney CBD perched on the third floor above Nick's seafood and overlooking all the Darling Harbour actions. As we peep outside, the glittering night lights of Cockle Bay Wharf is magical.