Supernormal part 1
Supernormal is taking all before it as an acclaimed culinary destination and new darling of Melbourne. I'm calling this part 1 as I journeyed here alone before a major event out of curiosity and the need for a glass of wine and a spot of dinner. This was my toe in the water experience at Supernormal. I shall return soon for part 2... Also check out our Best Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne.
Supernormal impresses with its long bar (where I was perched), modern fit out and sleek spaces... This place was humming on a Wednesday night. You had to get here around 6pm to be assured of a table.
The first thing I noticed was the Raw Bar - very "on trend"...
Supernormal reflects the culinary experiences of Andrew McConnell in Asia. Says the website,
"SUPERNORMAL OFFERS A PERSONAL INTERPRETATION OF CHEF ANDREW MCCONNELL’S FAVOURITE ASIAN EATING EXPERIENCES DRAWING ON HIS YEARS SPENT WORKING AND LIVING IN SHANGHAI AND HONG KONG.
IT WAS HERE THAT HE EXPERIENCED A BROAD RANGE OF FOOD IN FAMILY HOMES, ON THE STREETS, IN RESTAURANTS AND IN HIS OWN RESTAURANT KITCHENS.
THE SUPERNORMAL MENU COMPRISES OLD AND NEW FAVOURITES, DRAWING ON GOOD TIMES AT GOLDEN FIELDS OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS AND THE SUPERNORMAL CANTEEN OVER THE SUMMER."
Of notable fame is the New England Lobster Roll. We hear this has been a hot seller for years (about 80,000 including Golden Fields) and iconic in Melbourne. I was surprised by the generous amount of lobster in the small roll. With brioche bun the Lobster Roll is a rich satisfying dish and great value. I need more of these...
And great with a glass of Heathcote Shiraz...
Simple decent bar snacks make a difference... The bar and wait staff were engaging and savvy, enhancing the experience.
Supernormal hit the high notes with Prawn & Chicken dumplings, chilli & vinegar sauce (6 pieces). The dumplings are of high quality and the sauce with chilli was magnificent. I asked for a spoon just to consume the remaining sauce after I'd enjoyed the dumplings.
I want to return for the Duck Bao, and the larger dishes of Whole Roasted Flounder, Slow Cooked Szechuan Lamb and Steamed Grouper. What I loved was the acceptance and warmth I received for just having a bar meal - no pressure on me to order big.
