Melbourne's culinary scene is abuzz with the opening of Common Cuts, a steakhouse that promises a unique dining experience. This new establishment, located in the heart of the city, is the brainchild of Reki Reinantha, a renowned chef with a diverse culinary background. Reinantha's journey began in Indonesia, where his childhood memories of enjoying simple, comforting steaks at bistros inspired him to create a menu that celebrates both affordability and luxury.
A Steakhouse with a Twist
Common Cuts offers a menu that defies the traditional steakhouse stereotype. While it features premium cuts like the two-kilogram Margaret River tomahawk for a staggering $395, it also showcases lesser-known, secondary cuts such as Wagyu flank and Angus rostbiff, available at a more modest $28.50. Reinantha's philosophy is to treat all cuts with equal reverence, ensuring that even the more affordable options are cooked with precision and care. The signature steak frites is a testament to this, with a reverse-sear cooking method followed by a touch of Japanese charcoal for a unique flavor profile.
Accoutrements and Beyond
The menu extends beyond steaks, showcasing Reinantha's creativity and expertise. The house-made sauces are a highlight, with a unique take on the classic steak sauce. This signature creation, built on a Japanese technique, combines an aged-soy tare with cream and spices, resulting in a deeper, more complex flavor. Other notable dishes include a Wagyu brisket lasagne and a playful cheeseburger with a Wagyu patty and A5 Wagyu slices encased in a coconut bun.
Seafood and Non-Alcoholic Options
Common Cuts also showcases Reinantha's seafood expertise, with starters like spanner crab croquettes topped with salmon roe and grilled scallops in seaweed butter. The drinks list, curated by venue manager Will Lozen, features a Japanese-leaning selection with a focus on non-alcoholic cocktails. The Hojicha Tiramisu Milk Punch and Double Popcorn Please are standout choices, offering unique flavor profiles that complement the steak-centric menu.
The Common Cuts Experience
The restaurant's ambiance is just as intriguing as its menu. The walls are adorned with vinyl records, playing a mix of classic and contemporary music, from Pink Floyd to the Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack. This unique blend of steak and music creates a memorable dining experience, with the name Common Cuts taking on a double meaning. The venue's location at 380 Russell Street in Melbourne is easily accessible, and the opening hours cater to various preferences.
In conclusion, Common Cuts is a steakhouse that challenges the norms, offering a menu that celebrates both affordability and luxury. Reinantha's culinary expertise, combined with the unique dining experience, makes it a must-visit destination for steak lovers and food enthusiasts alike. The restaurant's ability to showcase different cuts, flavors, and culinary techniques, while also providing a relaxed and accessible atmosphere, sets it apart in Melbourne's competitive dining scene.
