Inner city dining gets a whole lot groovier at this brand new bar and eatery on busy Bunda Street. Newly opened Tongue & Groove has some seriously big city attitude, looking part gallery, part warehouse. Décor is black on black with hints of gold giving an edgy sophistication to the cavernous space. Towering ceilings are adorned with space age light fittings that emit a golden glow. An amazing hand painted wall mural is mimicked by a hanging art installation, and giant concrete Y frames that make up the skeleton of the building stand unadorned in the centre of the room, adding an industrial touch. Communal tables fill the centre of the space and luxurious Victorian lounges on the perimeter are perfect for after dinner. Food is simple rather than fussy and focuses on freshness and quality. Gourmet pizzas are expertly delivered from the wood fired oven and feature a classic selection along with some innovations. Light meals, often ordered to share, are certainly worth a sample – expect to find the sweetest bell peppers, filled with feta cheese and served with green olives and a white bean puree; or spatchcock, grilled, then roasted and served with a chickpea and jalapeño salad. Meatballs come with shaved parmesan and sit on a tangy tomato sauce; and salads may feature interesting combinations such as strawberries with goats cheese, watercress and a balsamic reduction. A well stocked bar takes pride of place at the lounge end, pushing out high quality beers, wines and spirits, as well as cocktails for the fashionable after dinner crowd.
