ICE IS NICE – Ice Cube

The Darling Harbour Cockle Bay precinct has gone from strength to strength, and given the watery context it is not surprising that seafood features in many places. One of the newer ones is Ice Cube, its refreshingly cool name an attraction in itself. The location doesn’t hurt either as it is as central as it could be under the Imax Theatre, making it an ideal  place for lunch or dinner in conjunction with a taste of the other delights of this city playground.

While there is a useful promenade-side bar where you can get fish and chips and other takeaways,  the restaurant interior is modern and attractive with icy blue accents matching the waterside setting balanced by rich shades of chocolate and burgundy. Head Chef Paul Jury has worked in top restaurants in the UK, under several Michelin chefs. He certainly knows his seafood and the tasting plate of BBQ octopus, chilli prawns, seared scallops and salt and pepper baby calamari is enough to show that his contacts with local fishermen is impeccable. Seafood doesn’t come any fresher than here. 

Ice Cube Seafood Bar & Grill, Ground Floor, Imax Theatre Complex, 31 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, NSW, 02 8267 3666, lunch and dinner daily. Open until late. www.icecubeseafood.com.au 

(Sally Hammond was hosted for a media lunch here)