15/20
European$$$
'It's Friday night,how about a martini or a glass of champagne?'That's the kind of invitation you can expect at this elegant Victorian terrace where a seasoned team practise the restaurateur's art with aplomb. It's a charming spot – moody,a little bit Latin,a little bit Greek. The black-trimmed,high-ceilinged dining room is sophisticated and inviting,with raffia-seated ladderback chairs and dripping wax candles. Let co-owner and sommelier Angie Giannakodakis guide you through the European wine list,and if you really want to kick back,leave the menu to the chef. Epocha is the sum of its parts:smart fitout,smarter service and a menu that's solid and sometimes sublime,with a rustic European heart. Swipe lush house-made butter across dark rye,smear fava bean puree on toasted brioche,enjoy the pairing of charry quail with pickled grapes,share a rack of veal,a simple salad of beetroot,goat's curd and caramelised pecans,or a neat zucchini and red pepper flan. To finish,classic panna cotta is enlivened by a hint of basil.
And … Also worth exploring:workday lunches,Sunday roasts and Hannah's Bar upstairs.
THE LOW-DOWN
VibeA slice of Europe.
Best bitA beautiful local restaurant that hums.
Worst bitIndecision. Which trolley? Cheese or dessert?