The latest venture from the team behind Fishbowl, Fsh Mkt, opened on a sunny Bondi corner last Friday – and it’s all about sustainable seafood. Buy the daily haul fresh and by the kilo, or order from the eatery’s standout takeaway menu.
Nathan Dalah co-owns Fsh Mkt and its sister eatery Fish Shop, as well as Fishbowl, with Nic Pestalozzi and Casper Ettelson. He says opening day was a hit.
“There were easily 150 to 200 people picnicking in the park next to us, and we had a live band and oyster shucking. It was really cool to see a vindication of our intention – to elevate takeaway food and picnics,” Dalah tells Broadsheet.
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SIGN UPJust like Fishbowl, Fsh Mkt is all about providing food that’s both fast and healthy. Behind the menu is executive chef Joel Bennetts (ex-Peppe’s, Three Blue Ducks, Henry Deane), who also heads up the kitchen at next-door Fish Shop.
A few favourites are already emerging, including the swordfish-steak sandwich with salsa verde, tartare, onion jam, and wild rocket. Then there’s a fancy take on the humble potato scallop, in which the potato is replaced with eggplant; it comes with a side of sweet arbol chilli sauce. Another winner is the chunky slice of prawn toast with a side of chilli jam for dipping.
Needless to say, the mighty fish’n’chips hasn’t been forgotten. Go for the classic version, with tartar sauce and lemon, or opt for a build-your-own box, with your choice of grilled fish and condiment, and fries or salad.
Or, head to the picnic bar to create a deluxe spread. You’ll find Appellation oysters, and peel-and-eat prawns with cocktail sauce, as well as trout rillette, taramasalata, and crostini. Plus, there are made-to-order veggie dishes and salads, which evolve with the seasons.
“At the moment, we have a mixed-leaf salad, with soft herbs and pumpkin seeds,” says Dalah.
“There’s also a slaw with cabbage, mint, onion and dukkah, and a kale Caesar salad with pickled onion and sourdough crumbs.”
The venue’s sandy tones and pared-back design are the work of designer George Livissianis (The Apollo, Cho Cho San, Cafe Paci). There’s seating for 16 people, comprised of bar stools and outdoor tables.
If you can’t get a seat, remember, this is a takeaway. And the shop is in pole position for picnicking – it overlooks a sunny, north-facing park with room for plenty of blankets. Plus, it’s a 10-minute walk from the south end of Bondi Beach.
“It’s like going to dinner, but you don’t need a reservation – and you can bring your own booze,” said Dalah. “The space is a special pocket of Bondi, away from the hustle and bustle of the beachfront. There’s a unique atmosphere, with locals and families and kids running around. We’re hoping to hold oyster-shucking events and live music at least monthly.”
Fsh Mkt
80 Glenayr Avenue, Bondi Beach
Hours:
Mon to Fri 12pm–3pm, 5pm–8.30pm
Sat & Sun 12pm–8.30pm