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Sirocco Restaurant, Holiday Inn ESPLANADE DARWIN

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

A balmy Mediterranean wind has blown through Darwin and come to rest at the Holiday Inn in the form of this elegant hotel restaurant. The terracotta tones of the interior dining room are a welcome contrast to the cool blues of the pool it overlooks, and poolside bathers sunning themselves under Darwin's rays call one to adopt the easy lifestyle of the Greek islands. Straight-backed cane chairs sit up to white tables with the easy formality of the holidaying rich and side tables are filled with A-grade olive oils and jars of pickled condiments.

Imbibing a refreshing tropical cocktail on the poolside deck of the Sirocco Bar is a great way to farewell the day, especially with an aspect that catches the spectacular Darwin sunsets. The menu continues the Mediterranean theme with starters such as warm crab frittata flavoured with Roma tomato, chives and potato with lemon aioli and a soft herb salad; and Venetian onion soup thickened with almonds and topped with Grana parmesan. From a selection of pastas and risottos, try the Sardinian fregola simmered with tiger prawns, cherry tomatoes, garlic and chilli matched with a salad of fried haloumi, baby beans, cherry tomatoes and fresh mint. Fresh breads with Mediterranean fillings are an easy option for a light lunch, while breakfast consists of a hot and cold buffet selection.

 

Shelley Hepworth, April 2007