Exchange Hotel Balmain
Editorial
The Exchange is one of those classic old pubs that seem to lurk on every corner in Balmain. This particular pub has occupied the Beattie Street corner for more than 121 years, with two glorious levels and an expansive wraparound balcony that lends a nice view over Balmain. The bottom level has an old-school pub feel and caters to those in want of a chinwag and a cheeky beer or two after work. The pretty young things bypass the ground level altogether and ascend to the first floor where the sound of their high heels echo off the gold plated wall in Zettal Lounge and the pressed metal ceilings in the revamped Safari Bar.
Upstairs is also where the food is found. The sensible menu contains easy to share items such as chunky beer battered fries with tomato relish and made-to-order pizzas. You can choose where you’d like to take your food, but the breezy balcony or comfortable Zettal Lounge are the best bets, especially if you plan to savour your meal. Comfort food abounds on the menu with dishes like grilled lamb chops atop sweet potato mash with baby leeks and sweet beetroot jam, and mushroom tortellini with button mushrooms and spinach in a rich sage parmesan sauce. The Exchange is more than a restaurant, with its fine trappings and potent cocktails it is often the making of a big night out.
Jennifer Miller, March 2007
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