Name: Apoteca
Item: Apoteca
Rating: 5
Author: Eamon Gafney

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Eamon Gafney

Sunday 21 April 20242024-04-21 13:15:54

Ambience

Low

Food

Service

We went an early sitting as we had been to a matinee show.
As suggested here, we went the cellar.
Only one person was a little louder than everyone else. The remainder of the patrons were couples or a small group that was not loud.

Again due to being suggested here, we did the 4 course prescription’ and threw caution to the wind to do the wine pairing also.

All courses were tasty and the paired wines were nice. Staff were attentive.

Seated: Cellar
Day of week: Saturday
Time: 6:00 pm
1 year ago
AmbientMenuEarBuds

Sunday 25 February 20242024-02-25 13:50:43
Ambience

Low

Food

Service

Apoteca – A Unique Culinary Experience

Nestled amongst the hustle and bustle of Hindley Street, Apoteca offers a unique dining experience once you enter it’s doors. You instantly feel like you walked into a bygone era, where every corner tells a story.

“Formerly The Apothecary, 1878, it is located in a heritage listed building. Originating from London, the 143-year-old pharmacy cabinets grace the front bar. Tumbled marble floor tiles arranged in the same style as the footpaths of Italy are featured in the main bar. Rustic brickwork lines the cellar walls, and some 1200 wines quietly sleep behind intricate wrought iron work. Antique chaise lounges and seating have been rescued to create the unique and inviting atmosphere in the Dispensary”

What I love:
1. Its thoughtful design, with multiple levels to suit your dining and conversation needs. Whether you’re seeking a lively atmosphere at the bar, an intimate dinner in the cellar, or a private gathering in the mezzanine, Apoteca has you covered.

Entry level – bar for drinks and walk in meals – set up like an 1800s chemist with lots of interesting artefacts from days gone by to look at and talk about. The open bar and acoustics make it a lively atmosphere for those seeking energetic vibes.

Cellar – my pick for easy conversation. Ambient lighting, acoustically friendly with carpet, well spaced tables, soft music and original brickwork to absorb excess sound. The space is partially separated by the original brickwork, on one side of the cellar behind the wrought iron gates, the extensive wine collection is stored.
Booking ahead is essential to secure a spot in this sought-after space.

Mezzanine – a semi-private, secluded area for a small group dinner of up to 12 guests. With views out to the private courtyard and glimpses into the main bar, the Mezzanine is a perfect blend of private dining, while still remaining part of the historic and vibrant atmosphere.

First floor – Dispensary – bar and lounge
With its own private bar, the Dispensary Lounge is perfect for private dining or a cocktail function. Can accommodate up to 85 guests for a cocktail function or 30 guests for a private dinner. To me it resembles an 1800s mansions smokers lounge.

2. The food
Food was delicious and surpassed my expectations. We had the Chefs tasting menu ($75 pp for 4 courses) and we left feeling very full and very satisfied. We ate:
Zucchini, goat’s curd, pea salad; The peas were served 3 ways, fresh, freeze dried and mashed.
King salmon, sprouted legumes, preserved lemon.
Lamb shoulder, hummus, smoked almonds. Perfectly cooked into squares which melted in your mouth.
Grass-fed scotch, tarragon butter, broccolini (sorry not pictured, devoured).
We simply couldn’t fault the food

3. I also love how extensive the wine list is.

4. The service: To top off the exceptional food, the service was on point, and the staff were extremely polite and friendly.

EAR BUD Q TIP
It is less busy during the week, the only spot to dine is at the bar / dining area. Weekends this area gets lively, but downstairs you are still sheltered from the ‘din’.

In conclusion, Apoteca is more than just a restaurant – it’s an experience. Its historic charm, its culinary delights, its ambience, and every aspect is curated to ensure a memorable dining experience. I will be back!
Seated: Bar Dining Room
Day of week: Saturday
Time: 7:00 pm
1 year ago
Stephen

Sunday 5 March 20232023-03-05 15:25:12

Ambience

Low

Food

Service

I love the entrance which is made from imported 1850’s London Chemist shop furniture. The front shop is a place to linger with a glass of something from the extensive drinks list.

When booking a table for four, I asked for a table in a quieter space. As there was a function downstairs, we were given a small room at the back of the restuarants (up a few steps), which we had to ourselves until 8pm. The waiter also turned down the music a little at my request.

We went for the “Feed Me” menu which was well presented, but too heavy in meat for my liking. Nevertheless, all courses were well made.

Highlights were:

– Kingfish ceviche, pipparas
– Cold strips pf zuccinhi with other veggies (not on the menu).

A couple of bottles of Adelaide Hills Chardonnay (Landner?) and nips of calvados digestif for the non-drivers (lucky people).

Apothercary (pre-2019) or Apoteca, who cares. A classy spot a little out of place in Hindley St.

Seated: Inside at back up a few stairs to private dining room
Time: 6:00 pm
Aged friendly
2 years ago
Nic Medlycott

Wednesday 19 May 20212021-05-19 22:11:12

Ambience

Low

Food

Service

Small floor area, which had 2 smaller tables (2 person) and 2 medium tables (6 person). Allowed for easy conversation.

Downstairs had a function which was only noisy when you went downstairs to toilet area.

Food beautiful and very friendly service. Wine list was expensive.

Seated: Inside
4 years ago

Ambient Menu

Ambient Menu

Apoteca

Apoteca

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