In the middle of 2024,glitzy Melbourne-based events company The Big Group was announced as the new hospitality partner for the MCA’s food offerings. This included the level-four cafe – the one with a terrace and Circular Quay views – and that space has since been transformed into Canvas by way of Scando-style design and modernist Clement Meadmore furniture.
Edinburgh-born chef James Scott leads the kitchen,and we’re happy to see some love for the Bakewell tart,England’s answer to “how delicious can shortcrust pastry,frangipane and raspberry jam possibly be?”
Scott’s other dishes swerve more into the modern,such as bluefin tuna tiled with compressed watermelon and radish,and whipped goat’s cheese with refreshing little Granny Smith balls,candied walnuts and vibrant wedges of beetroot. The “Lambington” is a highlight,featuring rose-pink lamb loin enveloped by haggis (a lusty ground mix of sheep lungs,liver,heart and oats),spinach-green crepe and rough-puff pastry.
Notably,the hospitality and wine service are also two cuts above most other gallery restaurants in Australia.
Good to know: Three courses will set you back north of $110,but the price includes sourdough from Pyrmont’s PiOiK Bakery,extra crunchy roast spuds and a smartly dressed leaf salad.