For those who keep an eye on the news, there’s a lot of excitement around the future of the Casino Canberra precinct. It’s new owner, Aquis, is looking to develop the existing casino into a multi-function venue to compete with some of the best in the world.
As a part of this vision, a whole new team is coming together at the existing venue. At the casino’s restaurant, Natural Nine, Executive Chef Chad Ogden has arrived with a fresh take on food that is a welcomed update. Ogden, who was trained in the some of the best restaurants in the USA (Daniel, New York and Charlie Trotter’s, Chicago) before heading off to Tokyo, Kyoto and an extended stay in Macau, is setting an exciting new direction that is the foundation for a restaurant refurbishment in the New Year.
Looking across the revised menu there are plenty of favourites, however they all benefit from clever twists that demonstrate Odgen’s international experience.
There’s an art to preparing wontons, and one of the key challenges for any kitchen is to attain the perfect cases to showcase the delicious filling, Chef Ogden absolutely nails it with his home-made Shrimp and Pork Wontons. Paying close attention to Eastern traditions, the chilli oil adds a gentle heat without being overpowering. The highlight, of course, is the succulent mix of prawn and pork inside: Can you imagine two flavours you’d want more in a wonton? No, neither could we.
Steamed Clams with Lemongrass and Chilli continues the tradition with another bunch of fresh and zesty flavours hitting the palate. As you would expect, the meat of the clams is super fresh with just a hint of natural salt, however it is the addition of super-finely sliced red pepper, lemongrass and a hint of coriander that brings the dish together with spice and citrus-like zest.
For lunch (or a great early dinner) the BLTA Sandwich is a great go-to. Chef Ogden brings his North-American influences to the table with this fantastic version of a club sandwich. The rich, dark rye bread bread is a sensation – you simply don’t see this style much around Canberra. Inside is fresh tomato, lettuce and avocado with perfectly-cooked bacon, however it’s the addition of a saffron and roasted garlic aioli that takes this sandwich to another level.
When it comes to a great steak, the less distraction the better and Natural Nine certainly understands this concept. Their Grilled Tenderloin comes with mash and some grilled baby carrots and is served with a delicious pepper sauce. However, these are just the supporting characters to the star of the show – a perfectly-cooked piece of beef that offers very little resistance when the knife is applied. Oh, yes!
As for desserts, in keeping with the overall style of the menu, the list is simple but very well executed. The Strawberry Cream Cake towers on the plate, but its size belies the perfectly light sponge that is contained within. The strawberry elements aren’t overplayed – meaning this is a sweet dish that still feels balanced. With gloriously fresh cream it’s a great way to finish.
Natural Nine shows where Casino Canberra is going, and makes for a great place to eat on the east side of the city. Lunch is available from 12.00pm to 2.30pm and dinner is served from 5.30pm. We can’t wait to see what the next six months brings, but we’ll definitely be stopping in to be part of the journey.
