Ripples, Chowder Bay Rd, Mosman

Ripples, Chowder Bay Rd, Mosman

Friday 28 September, 2007

What a glorious location. I am a local to the area and I didn't even know this place existed. Ripples, Chowder Bay officially opened on 1 August this year and commands a harbour foreshore site that has been restored by the Harbour Trust.

Ripples - the cafe chain that started at North Sydney pool and is linked to Aqua Dining - is a gorgeous cafe offering Italian inspired food. For our celebration lunch and my first outing in over a week we couldn't have picked a better day - the weather was sensational and the Harbour sparkled.

Not surprisingly, for such a unique location, this place has been booked out most days since it opened. However finding it and actually getting to the entrance are a challenge. There are two entrance points - park at Chowder Bay and walk across the park or navigate the national parkland drive on Chowder Bay Drive and attempt to find a car spot amongst the construction and limited space. As the area has only recently opened up there is still a lot of work to be done. The entrance requires clearer signage, a level entry (if this is possible), work to ensure the staircase is safe - it's very steep and a better pathway and entrance.

We arrived for our midday celebration and were welcomed to a lovely table. The staff joked with us about how difficult the parking is but we all agreed that this had to be one of the most spectacular locations on Sydney Harbour. There was a gentle breeze that blew through the covered deck as we were seated on these fabulous clear and black moulded chairs. The atmosphere is relaxed and you need a drink as soon as you arrive to toast the fact you found it!

The tables were beautifully set with crisp white tables cloths, the staff were dressed in grey branded uniforms and were all very courteous and friendly. The menu is Italian inspired which is perfect for the location. After soaking up the view and the atmosphere I couldn't go past the Crab filled zucchini flowers for entree and the Blue eye cod with white bean salad for main. The food was stunning and I could not fault it in any way. The flavours, fresh taste and quality of the seafood was truly magnificent.

As we enjoyed our lunch the wind picked up a little and the tables right on the edge of the deck experienced the brunt of it as the umbrellas fell over knocking off glasses several times. This will have to dealt with to ensure the safety of patrons. There are a few private dining areas however they don't command the views that the deck seating does. If I have any complaints about the deck seating it is that the tables are a little close - this was emphasised as the staff knocked off our cutlery twice as they squeezed past.

For a breakfast, lunch venue this location is ideal and once they address the access and parking situation it will be a wonderful experience. This is a venue to be enjoyed during daylight hours - it's magic.

Ripples - Deck C, Chowder Bay Rd, Mosman - 9960 3000

http://www.ripplescafe.com.au/