Relationships between siblings can be tricky at the best of times, so it comes as no surprise that the same goes when a successful restaurant opens a sister venue.
Whether it’s the constant comparison or the younger sibling isn’t living up to the expectations set by the over-achieving family member, it can be a blessing and a curse.
From the team behind wildly popular Asian fusion eatery Emily Taylor, as well as boutique Warders Hotel, comes Sailing for Oranges.
In prime position on Freo’s iconic cappuccino strip, from the outset it appears to be the perfect addition to a buzzing South Terrace.
Similar to its older sibling, it seamlessly mixes stylish interiors with a light and bright courtyard that makes you feel like you’re on holiday somewhere sunny.
This is where the similarities stop, but that is not a bad thing. Sailing for Oranges could stand out from the crowd even if it wasn’t a food version of a nepo baby.
The menu is Mediterranean and broken down into aperitivo, curados and conservas, verduras, ensalada, et al, raciones, especialidad and queso y postres.
If like me, you’re not sure what these words mean, Google them before you go as on the night we went we weren’t offered any explanation, though that can be part of the fun.
We ordered an array of dishes from across the categories, which are served as they’re ready.
First to the table was a cured snapper with crème fraiche and strawberry ($20). While I’m certainly partial to a strawberry and cream dessert, adding snapper to the mix felt like a risk.
We weren’t to worry though, the combination worked.
There was the smallest amount of the crème fraiche under each piece of fresh and firm snapper while the strawberry reduction added an element of sweetness.
Next, a scattering of torched asparagus sitting on a bed of ajo blanco topped with crunchy almonds ($15) arrived. This is the kind of dish that reminds you how delicious vegetables can be.
While ajo blanco is typically a Spanish cold soup made with bread, almonds, garlic, olive oil and vinegar, this dish was more puree in texture and was so tasty.
For anyone who enjoys a whack of heat, the tender chicken espetada, piri piri and curry leaf ($24) is for you. The neon orange sauce has plenty of kick while the chicken, which has a meatball texture, was moist and packed with flavour.
Fremantle octopus with thyme, kipflers and chorizo oil ($26) was well-cooked occy and spuds, but for me lacked the ‘wow factor’ of the other dishes.
The Euro-inspired playlist was excellent and added to the vibrant vibes, and service was friendly and efficient.
When it comes to this foodie family, for me there is no sibling rivalry, with the duo both offering something unique and doing it extremely well.
33 South Terrace, Fremantle
OPEN
Mon-Thurs, 7am-10pm, Fri-Sat, 7am-11.30pm, Sun, 7am-10pm
BOOKINGS
Yes
CONTACT
9239 3333
THE VERDICT
A great addition to South Terrace in Fremantle, offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a group of friends. Spanish-inspired dishes are packed with flavour, great playlist and the service is efficient.
16/20
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