Recently I decided to become more proactive at work and to join the Social Committee. This was of course was fueled with wanting to have a Mid-Winter Christmas dinner, something that I had become accustomed to from my time working in Auckland. Little did I know that I wasn’t joining the Social Committee, but rather making one from scratch on account of all the previous members quitting. So that’s how I became the President of the Social Committee (and the sole member for a while).
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| Beef Broccolini 'Meat Carrot' |
But being the sole member has its perks, I had full reign over where and what everyone was going to eat at the dinner.
I managed to get a booking in at a Restaurant in Northbridge called Bonsai. Then I locked in a 16 course tasting menu for everyone. The items sounded delicious and I was told that the restaurant was excellent so needless to say I was very excited. I worked out a budget with one of the practice directors and off we went. This budget was of course blown by about a thousand dollars - he insisted that we had an unrestricted open bar and assured me that since partners were invited everyone would be on their best behaviour. I do recall thinking, as I looked around the room while people were pouring sake out of novelty sized bottles that this was probably not a good move, however everyone had a great time (I think) so who am I question the decision.
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| The Tempura Barrumundi |
Anyway, back to the 16 courses, which were (in order of arrival) Crispy Chicken Salad, Tuna Tataki, Wagyu Beef Tataki, Fresh Sashimi Spoons, Prawn Kushi Yaki, Pan Fried Scallops, Beef Asparagus, Fried Chicken Tosazu, Tempura Barramundi, Oyster Panko, Creamy Prawn Springrolls (I was truly drink at this course), Chilli Crab Claws, Takoyaki, Crispy Skinned Duck, Teriyaki Chicken, Teriyaki Wagyu Sirloin.
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| Sashimi spoons |
Unfortunately, being an open bar I couldn’t really critique each dish and as the night went on everything tasted like the best thing I’ve ever eaten, until of course I becoming so full that I was force feeding myself food so I didn’t feel I was missing out (I know food FOMO).
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| Tuna, going fast |
However, I would have to say the standout dish for me was the Chilli Crab Claws, although the scallops come in a very close second.
I thoroughly enjoyed the evening and all the stress of late RSVPs and pullouts was worth it. I had a few great drunken conversations with my bosses and colleagues which were hilarious. Everyone I spoke to on the night thanked me for organising such a great event (which was an added bonus). Hopefully the next event I organise would be equally as appreciated.
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| Pan fried scallops, butter...mmmm... |
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| Beef Asparagus |
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| Some chicken stuff, almost the end |
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| Chilli crab claws...YUM |
