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Taxi Dining Room is acknowledged as one of the top restaurants in Melbourne. Situated at the ideal location in Federation Square, it is not only recommended by tourists but also receives positive review from local Melburnians.
The recommendation TAXI receives from The Good Food Guide every year is the reflection of its qulity service and amazing cuisine. It was also awarded Wine List of the Year and Wine Service Award (Lincoln Riley) in the same guide in 2010. The cuisines, wine categories and knowledgeable sommeliers are the most impressive in TAXI.
Not only has Taxi Dining Room added the essence of Japanese cuisines into its modern Australian dishes, it has also included its executive chef, Tony Twitchett's items of inspiration. It has gone beyond the frameworks of Japanese and Australian cuisines.
"I've always liked drinking beer and I often drink Kirin Megumi after work. I've been a Kirin fan since a long time ago. It's light and smooth so I always end up gulping it down quickly. I got a huge hangover once after drinking 24 of them (Laugh)."
Kirin Megumi beer is new at TAXI this year. "We offer dishes such as sashimi so Kirin Megumi will go perfectly with those Japanese style menu. It is also very popular in the restaurant," commented Owen Brockfield, the venue manager.
Crispy Atlantic Scallops with Smoked Chili Mayo
The cuisines that chef Tony tasted when he travelled to Mexico became the inspiration of this cuisine. Onion and shallot pickles are smooth and refreshing in taste. "I like chili so I came up with this dish," said Tony. The strong flavour of this dish enhances the taste of the beer.
Lightly Cured Snapper Sashimi with Ginger Pear dressing
The snapper sashimi is created by Kenji, the chef in charge of Japanese dishes. It boosts the beer's refreshing taste. The sashimi tastes great even without soy sauce because the yuzu chili pepper (ordered directly from Japan) already enhanced the overall flavour.
Five Spice Atlantic Salmon Fillet, Fennel Puree, Raspberry and Madeira Jus
The salmon fillet has been grilled exquisitely to reach a point where the outer layer is crispy yet the inside is soft. Contrary to its look, the dish is actually rather refreshing. Apparently it is a new dish that has recently been added to the menu as summer approaches.
At the same time when TAXI DINING ROOM introduced Kirin Megumi, the Transport Public Bar downstairs has also set up a tap for it. It is also popular within the bar. The bar is a great place if you are looking for somewhere to have a quick drink.
It is also possible to hold functions at the restaurant's River Room, which is overlooking the Yarra River. It can hold up to 45 guests at a time for banquets, or 65 guests for cocktail events (stand-up meals). We highly recommend spending those special days at TAXI DINING ROOM!
The harmony between the combination of seasonal menu, high quality service and premium cuisines is what creates TAXI DINING ROOM.
Taxi Dining Room
URL: http://www.transporthotel.com.au/
Level 1, Transport Hotel, Federation Square,
Corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000
TEL: 03 9654 8808
Open: Mon-Sun noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm
>> Editors Note
A lot of support was given by manager Owen, chef Tony and Kenji in this interview. Thank you very much for your cooperation so we could quickly finish the interview and photo shoot.
A variety of delicious dishes were provided during the special dinner event a few days ago, and the three that have been introduced here were simply superb. The combination of scallops and Kirin Megumi was the best! It was also enjoyable eating the tender sashimi along with the nice smell of beer. You definitely have to try it out!
