PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIANot the first of Canberra’s restaurants to succumb to an alliterative name, Peppered Prawn occupies a bright, airy space on the ground floor of Woden’s newest apartment complex, Sky Plaza. And as its name suggests, the restaurant is a haven of all things seafood – the first of its kind in Woden and a welcome place for residents and passers by to indulge in some well-earned gluttony. The modern interior is clearly visible from wide, floor-length windows. Hanging papery lanterns and soft ochre walls imbue the place with a subtle elegance, and a refrigerated glass cabinet at the bar flaunts seafood fireworks – a vivid display of shellfish and prawns on ice.
Manager Militza Stojanovic is careful to emphasise that only fresh seafood is used in Peppered Prawn’s dishes, sourced from all over Australia. Some dishes, such as the Lobster in the House, actually have the main ingredient caught fresh by the chef himself (hence the necessity of 24 hours’ notice if selecting this dish!). Prices, although fluctuating with the market, are reasonable given the care and expense that inevitably comes with serving fresh seafood in Canberra. The menu is polished and surprisingly flexible, with options for gluten-free and vegetarian diners, as well as a children’s menu. The wine-list is similarly elegant, showing a slight leaning towards local wineries – however, none of the usual accompanying mark-ups in price. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Peppered Prawn is perfect for a decadent business lunch or first-class, informal dinner.
Stephanie Wang, September 2007
