MasterChef Magic In Balgowlah

Sometimes a diner can walk through the door and irrevocably change the future of a restaurant. And no, we're not talking about a bad review on TripAdvisor. We're talking about a MasterChef finalist and a partnership that has delivered some extraordinary results.

When MasterChef UK finalist Sheridan Millward walked into Greg Urand’s Roasted Grape restaurant in Balgowlah, the pair had no idea just how much of a formidable duo they would become.

Since leaving MasterChef UK, Sheridan has nurtured her passion for innovative food and become a local Sydney identity in the process. When she visited the Roasted Grape, she could smell potential in the air. And Roasted Grape owner, Greg, was more than happy to have her well-seasoned experience.

Together, the two have completely revamped the Northern Beaches eatery. A new menu, a new wine list, and a new ambience have combined to deliver a dining experience that has all the locals talking.

Playing to each other’s strengths, Sheridan has been let loose in the kitchen, and Greg has created an exceptional wine selection to match. The new menu from Sheridan delivers inspired, creative dishes that are sure to excite everyone’s palate.

Winning wines

Take a read of the wine menu and it’s clear that Greg has a passion for wine. Even the menu is categorised by ‘White Wine Accompaniments’ and ‘Red WineAccompaniments’, putting wines firmly at the forefront. The knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect wine. Look out for the Pindarie Wines from the Barossa Valley for a winning drop.

MasterChef on the menu

The new ‘MasterChef-inspired’ menu was launched in August, and diners are raving about the innovative new dishes as well as the refreshed locals’ favourites.

Look out for the new and improved Popcorn Chicken accompanied with a delicious tangy, chipotle mayonnaise. The Scallops with Sweet Corn and Prosciutto Shards is fast becoming one of the favourite dishes. But by far, the most talked about dish on the menu is the Duck Balls. As the menu is quick to point out, this is not a literal description of the dish. Instead, it is soft and juicy duck meat rolled into balls and garnished with a beautifully crisp sour cherry vinaigrette and mayonnaise.

You’ll find plenty of inspiring flavours amongst the dessert menu as well. Why not finish off with Lemon Panna Cotta with Amaretto Strawberries or the deconstructed Affogato with Frangelico, ice cream and espresso?

Bang on in Balgowlah

Bringing in the 'MasterChef factor' has been an inspired decision for Greg. The refreshed dining experience at Roasted Grape is now elegant and exciting, making it one of the most talked about dining spots in Balgowlah. If you haven’t visited Balgowlah lately, it’s worth a visit. Just 30 minutes from the Sydney CBD on the northern beaches, Balgowlah offers a vibrant dining scene not far from Manly Beach.

Thanks to Sheridan's bold offer to Greg that first day she walked into his restaurant, the Roasted Grape has reached its true potential. The result is precisely what Greg and his team were hoping to achieve. Diners at Roasted Grape can enjoy exceptional food, perfectly matched wine and an ambience that allows conversation and wine to flow. For a perfect spot to share plates with family, friends or colleagues, the Roasted Grape is our MasterChef winner.