Bondi Hardware – Surprisingly Un-wanky

By Rhys Kane on April 10, 2012 in Food

Photo: Grant Brooks

I appreciate that a lot of the more established residents in the Bondi area would have been upset by the closure of the hardware shop on Hall Street – I’ll admit that I was too. But it’s a sign of the times I’m afraid, and now another trendy wine bar/cafe/restaurant with ‘share’ food has taken its place.

While a bit gimmicky, it’s a novel tribute that the new owners have kept the name and the ‘hardware’ theme alive. But other than the original blue sign out the front, the whole place has been completely gutted and tastefully refurbished. It’s a decadent re-fit that has transformed the old-school hardware shop into a beautiful, dark and sumptuous saloon bar, stripped back and rustic with lots of dark wood, bare brick, hanging foliage, industrial finishes and beautiful people.

This seems to be the current haunt for the trendies synonymous with Bondi, but don’t be put off – there is a lot of substance to this place beyond being the new ‘in’ place to go. A lot of establishments in the area seem to rely on their cool vibe, funky bartenders and sexy waitresses, but Bondi Hardware also boasts the kind of attention to detail that would put it up there with anything in Surry Hills, and the service is friendly, attentive and surprisingly un-wanky.

The menu is made up of a mix of shared plates with a global feel. “Another tapas joint” I hear you say. Well it is, but they have made an effort not to jump on the Spanish bandwagon, opting instead for a fusion of different styles that offer some interesting choices.

Head Chef Justin Walshe is a local lad who seems to have gotten about a bit. His varied influences and fine-dining background have combined to create an eclectic menu designed for intimate grazing. The mini burgers are a must – you get four little gourmet medium-rare patties and they’re bloody delicious. We also tried the dips plate, the quesadilla and the beef brisket, and enjoyed the lot. Another highlight was the goat curry, an explosion of flavour with delicate meat and subtle spice. The only minor disappointment of the night was the kingfish ceviche – while it was delicious, the fish was a bit swamped and hard to find.

The Bondi Hardware drinks list comes as a little hardware manual with pictures of spanners and screws. It boasts o good selection of wines, beers, ciders and cocktails. The cocktail list, devised by owner Hamish Watts, is apparently getting everyone talking. I tried the Loco Coco, a whole young coconut loaded with Havana Club, lime and coconut syrup – delicious.

It’s well worth making a reservation for Bondi Harware, not only because it gets busy, but also because you’ll find your name written in chalk on your table on arrival.

To sum up our experience at Bondi Hardware, the food measured up perfectly, the staff members were well drilled and to hammer it home, we didn’t get screwed by the bill. Over all, it’s fair to say that Bondi Hardware has really nailed it.

Bondi Hardware

Address: 39 Hall Street, Bondi Beach
Phone: (02) 9365 7176
Web: www.bondi-hardware.com.au
Email: info@bondi-hardware.com.au
Head Chef: Justin Walshe
Open: Mon-Wed 5pm-10pm, Thurs-Fri Noon-Midnight; Sat 9am-midnight; Sun 8am-10pm
Prices: Breakfast $5-$18; Lunch
Cards: Visa, Master, Amex
Licensed/BYO: Licensed