Mar 11, 2022

Bibo Wine Bar Review

Pitch-perfect delivery of Portuguese-inspired share dishes without the cliches.

Food ★★★★☆

Service ★★★★★

Environment ★★★★★

Cost $$$--

During this rainy week I sort a reprieve from reality. The lucky Double Bayliens find their silver lining in the leaden clouds amongst the stunning local cafés and restaurants. Whilst searching for my hideaway from the rain I stumbled upon what I pictured in my dreams; a softly lit New York inspired wine bar. The décor is romantically dark, burnished black marble and rich polished wood providing an edgy without being over the top feel.

Set in an area known to be the playground for the pretentious where it's common to see a Lambo or two, as well as, the pouty wanna be famous Insta teens, Bibo is more discreet and understated. It's where the elegant meet over a seductive menu and smart wine list. Bibo is one of those glorious discoveries when searching for good wine and equally good food in Sydney.

Bibo Wine Bar is a collaboration between former Guillaume at Bennelong Head Chef Jose Silva and former Guillaume Paddington Restaurant Manager Jonathan Mallet. After years together in fine dining, the pair has designed an elegant yet relaxed wine bar, offering high quality Mediterranean food with a particular focus on the Portuguese food of Silva’s upbringing and the French technique.

Immediately you will be greeted by the friendly staff. As you sit taking in the moody décor, vibe and menu the staff elegantly whisk their way around the restaurant as if in Swan Lake. They also seem to know instinctively when you need them, and when to disappear back into the soft hum and background. The staff and sommelier were incredibly helpful with guiding us through the Portuguese inspired menu and wine list.

Bibo has a terroir-driven wine list with a selection from the best sites in Australia and around the world. The wine list is supplemented by an exclusive ‘museum release’ from their private cellar. It should be said though Bibo is by far more than just a 'wine bar'. Chef Jose Silva has put together a stunning mouth watering menu featuring a number of memorable dishes. Being only 2 people we struggled to select a handful of dishes, but decided to explore their seafood dishes.

Artisanal Bread & Alto Olive Oil
Hiramasa Kingfish served Raw with Fermented Plum, Caper Berries and Fish Roe
Abrolhos Island Scallops with Scampi Bisque and Piment d’Espelette
Skull Island Prawn with Tomato Salsa and Dill Vinaigrette
Crispy Pork Belly with Grilled Apricot and Rosemary Infused Pork Jus
Artisanal Lettuce with Mignonette, White Balsamic and Chive
Aubergine with Stracciatella, Chilli and Matchstick Potato

Final conclusions

What more can I say about Bibo? Neighbourhood wine bars are always about pleasing the neighbourhood. Only a special few are also destinations in themselves. Bibo Wine Bar is a must-try food and wine destination for anyone looking for that little bit of 'somethin, somethin'.