21 December 2023
By Hannah Wilcox
Mexican bar and kitchen Four Hundred has opened its doors on the rooftop of Greenwood Plaza, inviting diners into a lively oasis celebrating South American cuisine and speciality tequila.
Tucked away behind the iconic Greenwood Hotel away from the hustle and bustle of Pacific Highway and Miller Street, the venue was born out of the Aztec Legend of Mayahuel, Goddess of Agave, who gave birth to four hundred rabbits that loved to drink Pulque (the first form of tequila).
Four Hundred launched in October by multi-award-winning hospitality group Tilley & Wills and has been serving up dishes of bold Mexican flavours interwoven with Peruvian, Spanish, Argentine and Cuban influences ever since.
It is decked out in a Tulum-style interior; complete with raw materials such as terracotta, oak timbers and hues of blue designed by Sandy Grice.
The Sun went to try the exciting new menu and see if Four Hundred lives up to the promise of being a standout in North Sydney’s foodie hub.
Upon arrival, we ordered a variety of the exotic cocktails made up with speciality tequila Sesion, in partnership with former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins – starting off with the Straw Mirror made up of Reposado, mezcal, cucumber, mint, lemon, soda; the Chica Verde with Sesión reposado, melon, ginger, basil, lime; and Five Suns with tequila mezcal, fresh orange juice, house spiced grenadine and soda.
First thing we noticed was the exquisite presentation of the drinks. All of them were clean and well poured, with tasteful garnishes. All three were fresh, light and easy to drink.
We also tried the Mayahuel, consisting of Blanco, mezcal, Aperol, passionfruit, citrus, egg whites, the Mezcal Negroni with Mezcal, Campari, sweet vermouth 23 and the Classic Margarita with tequila mezcal, triple sec, lime and agave.
These three were sweet, smooth and packed a punch – definitely not holding back on the flavour.
For starters, we ordered the Salmon Crudo Tostada served with avocado salsa, aji verde, salmon roe and baby shiso. It was dairy and gluten free and came with three pieces which were bite-sized. It would’ve been ideal to maybe have another one on the plate, or perhaps added more of the topping onto the accompanying cracker. The presentation was a little messy, but overall, the flavours were harmonious, satisfying and left a lingering taste of freshness.
A Mexican staple well done, the Guacamole Salsa with macha and totopos (tortilla chips) came recommended and complemented the diverse flavours of the main dishes. The guacamole was smooth and creamy, combined with fresh herbs, tomato and topped off with lime juice.
Next up was the Stuffed Squash Flowers, which came with queso fresco, lemon verbena and salsa roja. The dish came with three pieces, but was on the smaller side and not plated particularly well for $19. However, it made up for it in the flavour – the squash flowers were honestly delectable and we highly recommend for any future diners to try this dish.
As one of Four Hundred’s menu highlights is its tacos, we couldn’t leave without tasting a serving of the Halloumi Frito’s; featuring fried halloumi, black beans, roasted pepper salsa and pickled chilli. Intended as a share platter, three tacos was an adequate serving size but again could’ve had more filling for $26.
A standout was the item we tried from the mains section, the Yucatan Bowl. It was made up of kale, roasted yams, charred corn, coriander, puffed quinoa, avocado, spiced pepitas, grapefruit & agave vinaigrette. The serving size was fantastic, a feast of colour, texture and shape that translated into taste. A well-devised balance of all the ingredients made for an enjoyable and light, yet filling, meal.
Overall, Four Hundred has mastered its niche as a speciality tequila and taco bar. The ambiance of the venue was lively, welcoming and nicely decorated, with friendly and helpful staff. The Sun thought the food was unique and delicious, leaving us content and pleased to say we would definitely recommend the restaurant for a future meal, casual or otherwise.
It is open and licensed on Monday to Saturday from 11:30am till late, accepting both bookings and walk-ins.