Hidden amongst the hubbub of City Walk’s C2 District, Rare Brasserie & Bar feels worlds away. Inspired by brasseries of Paris and New York, Rare plucks charm from the former and sultriness from the latter, infusing a hefty dose of its own personality for good measure. That personality comes courtesy of Art Deco-inspired interiors, art-splashed walls and a marble bar dotted with customers enjoying catch-ups, date nights and after-work tipples. Charm flows into the adjacent dining room where intimate tables and booths encourage making memories over sharing plates.
Nibbles kick-off the aforementioned plates and the fried olives are a moreish must-order – served crispy and sprinkled with crumbled feta, blink and the bowl will be empty. Bone marrow on bite-sized toasts, wagyu tartare with wasabi, and the heirloom tomato and peach salad make for other excellent starting points before proceeding to mains.
You would be forgiven for assuming that Rare was a steakhouse; yes, the menu offers an impressive array of premium cuts, but there is plenty to please. Case in point? Braised ox cheek with smoked butternut purée, charcoal peri-peri cabbage and king prawns drenched in chipotle butter. Those looking to venture into carnivore territory won’t go far wrong with a succulent 9+ Wagyu Striploin atop wasabi cream, best enjoyed accompanied by crispy sprouts and silky-smooth Paris mash.
If you know anybody that has visited Rare, they likely wax lyrical about the restaurant’s whipped burnt cheesecake; served deconstructed, prepare to battle for the last bite. Cuisine aside, Rare stands out for its extensive list of independently sourced grape from around the world, as well as innovative, ingredient-driven concoctions.
Whether you are visiting for a ladies’ night of free-flowing grape; heading down on a Friday to listen to live jazz; or simply stopping by just because, Rare has something for every diner and is guaranteed to turn first-timers to regulars. Book now