Comma Food & Wine

Comma is located in a former aquarium, which been transformed into a spacious venue with a bar at the back, private velvet booths to the right as you walk in and a long row of tables along the left. Upon arrival, the first thing you’ll see is a hand-painted floor sign reading “come as you are” – a symbol of owners Adam Cruickshank and Megan Kwee’s commitment to unpretentious drinking and dining.

On the culinary front, the two are joined by chef Matt Woodhouse who helped develop the restaurant’s menu, inspired by the inner-city wine bars, such as Neptune and Embla, that Cruickshank and Kwee love.

The menu is broken into small or large plates, bar snacks and sides. It’s protein heavy, although there are a few vegetarian options including corn, manchego and jalapeno croquettes. Otherwise, diners can expect dishes such as kingfish pastrami; chicken ribs with chimichurri; and a hanger steak with “cafe de Comma” butter – cooked on the in-house chargrill.

The wine list is concise, focusing mostly on regional varieties plus a few European additions, and you’ll find beer on tap or by the bottle (including some non-alcoholic options). The selection of cocktails has also proven popular – many have become bestsellers since the space opened in December 2020.

While there’s ample space inside the converted building, large groups can also book Comma’s hidden function room or dine at a picnic table in the lofty front courtyard. The venue’s vibe is casual, but even more so outside where you’ll find live music and lawn games – perfect for a relaxed afternoon.