After seeing Josh Emett on Masterchef cooking the coral trout in crispy fish skin, I had to visit Maze. Located in the Crown Metropole complex, the fine dining restaurant and grill are side by side within the hotel, so be specific when booking.
We were seated at our table in the dimly lit, cosy restaurant. Our waitress and the sommelier were very friendly and attentive. The menu was explained to us as a tasting menu, and you should take that quite literally.
Nick was sitting on a glass of red when we arrived so we proceeded to order a bottle of that to enjoy. We did peruse the wine list, it was extensive and bewildering, so this was easiest for us.
Whilst reviewing the menu, there were many exchanges over what to order, as most of it looked quite good and we couldn’t get 1 of everything.
We considered the degustation menu and the waitress indicated they were very flexible with what was on it, though she did make the suggestion that we substitute like meals for like.
After much agonising we chose to order our own 4 or 5 plates. I ordered the scallops, the quail, coral trout and pork belly.
The scallops were tender and full of flavour, the quail soft and delicate, the coral trout and broth lived up to expectation and the pork belly with asian flavours was exciting.
We also enjoyed the pink fir potatoes and the marinated beetroot dishes. The breadsticks with seaweed butter and rock salt was a great and, I dare say necessary accompanyment, to our meal.
B and N decided to enjoy dessert as well, having the chocolate fondant and cheese with bread respectively. I settled for a coffee.
I couldn’t fault the service, friendly, helpful, attentive and unobtrusive. Our meals were delicious, beautiful flavours and colours, presentation and textures. Truly left us wanting more…