THE REGION’S top restaurants have again performed well in The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2015, with two receiving hats for their culinary offerings.
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At the guide’s launch at Sydney’s Ivy Ballroom on Monday night, Lolli Redini picked up a hat for a 13th year, scoring 15.5 out of 20, while Tonic in Millthorpe was awarded its eighth hat with a score of 15.
Restaurants are marked for their food, service, ambience and special features.
Lolli Redini restaurateurs Simonn Hawke and Leah Morphett said it was an honour to be recognised again.
“You’re reviewed anonymously, so you’ve got no clue,” Ms Hawke said.
“To achieve that status requires a little bit more effort each year - it’s very important for the region to get that recognition because it gives you the momentum to improve and do new things.”
Ms Hawke said trade during the week had become tougher as construction eased at Cadia Valley Operations, but the key was to evolve while meeting customer expectations.
Tonic chef Tony Worland was “pretty stoked” with his restaurant’s result.
“It’s a pat on the back for the staff,” he said.
“Especially because regional areas are only reviewed once a year, whereas the ones in Sydney get a couple of reviews through the year - you’ve got to try to make sure you don’t drop the ball at any stage.”
Fellow top performer Racine just missed out on a hat in the 2015 guide, scoring 14.5 out of 20.
Racine co-owner Willa Arantz declined to comment.
The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2015 will be available for $10 with The Sydney Morning Herald this Saturday, September 6.
It can also be purchased in selected bookshops and online at smhshop.com.au for $24.99.
danielle.cetinski@fairfaxmedia.com.au