We think a lil’ dose of Disney is precisely what the world needs right now. A warm hug, a spoonful of sugar, a sprinkle of fairy dust, an enchanted pumpkin, or—in this case—a magical degustation laced with volumes of Disney-grade nostalgia.
Yes, Australia’s ultimate creative chef Nelly Robinson is back at it with the second chapter of his charming and artistic Disney-inspired 11-course degustation. The “Once Upon A Time” dinner sold out in just three weeks in 2019, so if you missed out last year—do yourself a favour and lock it in.
If you’re unfamiliar with Robinson’s Sydney restaurant nel., it is a pretty extra experience and definitely one for your dinner bucket list. Robinson changes up his degustation menu every eight weeks, each time developing a truly incredible, outrageous multi-course narrative, where every plate is a piece of art, a flavour sensation and a story in itself.
As for the 2020 edition "Once Upon A Time" menu, you’ll begin with Alice in Wonderland-inspired cookies, and finish with Cinderella-esque custard tarts peppered with fairy dust. While Robinson likes to keep most of the menu details under wraps to save the surprise—we can tell you that other dishes take inspiration from Beauty and the Beast, Finding Nemo, Peter Pan, Robin Hood and adorable Dumbo.
We also know there is a spellbinding snowman course (a Frozen shout out) that is made of black garlic bread, complete with a carrot nose, black iced eyes and “snow”. Honestly—this chef is genius.
“After the raging success of last year’s Once Upon a Time menu, we couldn’t wait to do it all again!” Robinson said.
“It was so much fun to create a whole new menu around some of my favourite films and we have carefully crafted dishes that will make diners feel like a child again, whilst enjoying it in an adult environment paired with fun cocktails and great wine to match.”
This might just be the happiest degustation on Earth. Book your spot here.
THE DETAILS
What: Once Upon A Time degustation When: Bookings available now for Tuesday 4 August to Saturday 7 November, for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday Where: nel., CBD Cost: $135 per person, plus $105 per person for matching wines and cocktails, or $50 per person for non-alcoholic beverages
Get to know chef Nelly Robinson with his guide to all the best eats in Sydney.
Image credit: nel.