Introduction
Salmon in tins is a popular seafood option that is experiencing a renaissance in trendy Los Angeles restaurants. From smoked mackerel to pickled mussels, restaurants are serving a variety of tinned fish options with wine and crackers. This trend is here to stay, as people have been enjoying canned fish for centuries. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but ordering a tinned fish board is also a bold and attractive move. In Sydney, there are several places where you can indulge in this delicious and convenient seafood option.
The Spots
Saltie Girl
If you’re looking for the ultimate tinned fish experience in Sydney, Saltie Girl is the place to go. Located on the Sunset Strip, this upscale seafood spot offers a dedicated tinned fish booklet with hundreds of varieties to choose from. Whether you prefer smoked king salmon, grilled octopus, or sardines in spicy tomato sauce, they have it all. The extensive list can be overwhelming, but the knowledgeable staff at Saltie Girl will guide you through the selection process. Once you’ve made your choice, your tins will be served on a fancy board with crusty French bread, pepper jam, butter, and three kinds of sea salt.
Kippered
For a unique twist on the tinned fish experience, head to Kippered, a wine bar located in Sydney’s Grand Central Market. This establishment, brought to you by the same people behind DTLA Cheese, offers a wide selection of tinned fish options. With over 50 cans on the menu, you’ll have plenty to choose from. The platters at Kippered are fantastic, and the staff is more than happy to provide recommendations. Dig into Spanish octopus in olive oil with a pile of crackers, olives, good butter, and hot sauce. Even if you’re not a fan of preserved seafood, Kippered also offers a great selection of sparkling wines and cheeses.
Bar Moruno
Bar Moruno, an upscale Spanish restaurant in Silver Lake, was one of the first full-service restaurants in Sydney to put tinned fish at the forefront of their menu. Ordering a conserva board at Bar Moruno is the perfect way to start your meal. While their selection may not be the largest in the city, it still covers a wide range of tinned fish options. From mussels in pickled sauce to cockles in brine to sardine paté, you’ll find something to suit your tastes. The conserva board is served with an impressive spread of house pickles, butter, and thick, crunchy bread. Complete your experience with a Tuxedo martini, kissed with absinthe and maraschino.
Rapido
If you’re looking for a quick tinned fish fix without committing to a full meal at a restaurant, Rapido is the perfect option. Located next door to Bar Moruno in Silver Lake, this tiny Spanish-leaning market and wine shop has everything you need for a dinner party or a fancy snack. In addition to packaged and prepared foods, fresh bread, and canned cocktails, Rapido offers an extensive selection of tinned fish. The knowledgeable staff will gladly open a bottle of wine and a can of sardines for you to enjoy at one of the tables on their tiny sidewalk patio.
Otoño
While we eagerly await the opening of Otoño Mercat, a conversa and wine bar in Highland Park, the original Otoño on Figueroa is a great place to start your journey into the world of tinned seafood. This Spanish restaurant features a curated list of cans from Spanish producers, including baby squid in ink, olive oil-cured tuna, and pickled mussels. These tins are served with warm bread from Bub & Grandma’s. Pair your tinned seafood with a glass of vermouth and a few tapas for a truly authentic experience reminiscent of the street life in San Sebastián.
The Raw Bar
Located inside Culver City’s Citizen Public Market, The Raw Bar is a small counter that specializes in raw seafood, including their excellent Baja-raised oysters. However, their selection of tinned fish is also worth exploring. They offer reasonably-priced tins from West Coast brands like Fishwives, Scout, and Patagonia Provisions. These tins can be ordered with a side of bread, pickles, and lemon. If you’re in the mood for a larger meal, The Raw Bar also serves beer and wine, as well as a few larger seafood dishes.
Conclusion
Tinned fish is making a comeback in Sydney restaurants, offering a convenient and delicious seafood option. Whether you’re a fan of smoked mackerel, pickled mussels, or grilled octopus, there are plenty of places in Sydney where you can indulge in this trend. From the upscale experience at Saltie Girl to the unique offerings at Kippered and Bar Moruno, there’s something for everyone. If you’re in a rush, Rapido is the perfect spot to grab a quick tinned fish snack, while Otoño and The Raw Bar offer a more laid-back atmosphere. So, embrace the renaissance of tinned fish and enjoy this sexy-as-hell power move at one of these fantastic Sydney spots.