It doesn’t take me much convincing to get out of the house for good live jazz. So when my friend Annie proposed to test out ‘All You Can Eat Dumplings & Jazz’ at Spring Street Social in Bondi, the answer was ‘when?’
A dip in North Bondi was appropriate to build up an appetite before heading back to the Junction. Spring Street Social is best venue in Bondi Junction with inspired, hands-on owners and management and various rooms and vibes appealing to a range of ages. While a fashion show is packing up in the next room and a Mexican dance party is setting up with young DJs just off their flight (well nearly), we trot downstairs into the restaurant/bar with a cabaret set up, exposed brick walls and red lighting and are lucky enough to find ourselves at a table in front of the small stage.
The band’s on a break so we get comfortable and are explained that the 30 dollar all- you -can- eat dumplings will start with a complimentary entré of edamame and vegetarian spring rolls then start rolling out in baskets for as long as we’re hungry. Sounds good right?
We order cocktails (there’s range of classics and variations on a theme) and are soon sucking down the salty, spiced edamame and crisp, juicy spring rolls with chilli and soy sauce. Then the band kicks in, the cocktails arrive and the dumplings start to appear. Amongst them are duck, mushroom, vegetarian and pork, presented by a charming Spanish waitress who we have to ask to repeat things a few times to decipher her accent but we don’t mind a bit as she’s so terribly sweet and enthusiastic.
The last time I ate dumplings it was disappointing as they were a little chewy and too dry. These are on another level. They’re soft, smooth and succulent. ‘These are the best dumplings I’ve ever had- and I should know, I live in Chatswood!’ Annie proclaims, laughing and licking her lips. ‘Isn’t the best thing in the world enjoying long meals with friends?’ I reply, telling the waitress that yes we’d like some more, but in no rush. Chef Kago (ex Mr Wong) send out some more delicate samples.
We’re listening to George Nikolopoulos (bass guitar) and Richard Bornman (guitar and vocals) – they’re the ‘Red Light District’ and deliver a smooth set of groove, funk, soul and swing…. we listen, munch and relax into inspired conversation.
To digest, more cocktails arrive, and it doesn’t take too much encouragement from Annie for me to agree to slip on my tap shoes and join the musicians for a jam.
Nourished and entertained, we bid our farewells to the musicians and staff, and promise to come back… then on the way out we agree that yes, it would be shame not to at least pop in to check out those Mexican DJs for a at least a few minutes since we’re here…
All You Can Eat Dumplings & Jazz ($30)
Wednesday- Saturday 5pm -10pm
They’re also lining up tapas and music evenings so make sure to keep up to date via their site.
Bookings here.
