Lorraine's Patisserie Part 2, CBD

Quick post this week. As you know, big fan of Lorraine's Patisserie down Wynyard and I've been there a couple of times before. Her cheesecake there is probably the best cheesecake I've eaten in Australia. You may have recognised it as being part of Neil Perry's Rockpool menu since 1984. The original is still currently being served out as part of their two-four course tasting at night (100-$155). If you were to divide the pricing with the amount of courses (which you obviously can't), I'd imagine it would cost a fair bit at Rockpool. Needless to say, her elusive famous date tart has a cult following and many others swooning. Elusive because at Lorraine's, she only makes 2 in one batch and only ever makes them once in a blue moon.

Date Tart 15

When she announced on Facebook, after not-so-'subtle' hinting, that she was making a batch this week, the comments went crazy. I called in at 8:30 (opening time) and I was probably the last person to purchase it. One man, I hear, tried to order 6. Lorraine wouldn't let of course. 

Yes, it's a tad more expensive than most tarts and you are paying slight because of the hype but mostly because of the technique. It's slightly cakey on top, filled underneath with the most luscious and creamy custard, the right amount of mashed up dates all on a buttery and flakey shortcrust crust. It's balanced. It's understated. It's perfect and it's impossible to fault. Top 3 tarts easily along with the banoffee pie at Sopra (still a tart in my eyes) and the caramel chocolate one at Flour and Stone. 

What are you waiting for? Get a slice now! Oh wait, it's not always available. Nevertheless, stay sharp. It'll inevitably pop up again. 

Posted in: date, Merivale, tarts