WATERLOO: Sunday afternoon at the Abbotts Hotel. Outside, it’s raining, winter’s on the way. We gather at a cosy corner table, remove jumpers and jackets, settle in for a hot plate of fried rice and lemon chicken.
It’s a good place to meet. Warm, friendly, lots of familiar faces. And nothing fancy. Cold beers, footy on the big screen, and hot, good-quality Chinese food – cooked up by Billy in the kitchen, served with a smile.
The fried rice is fluffy and tasty, with egg, prawns and veggies. The lemon chicken is light and crispy.
I also recommend the short soup, Peking pork chop and mixed vegetable chow mein.
Billy has been resident chef at the Abbotts since January. Formerly at Club Redfern and the Erskineville Bowling Club, he cites love of customers as reason for continuing to work in the area.
His customers appreciate it, too. “Billy’s food is mad!” enthuses Matt. “He’s here six days a week. You get a full plate of clean-tasting, beautiful lunch or dinner.”
The Abbotts is owned by Steve, who also owns the Lord Raglan. He knows the locals and treats everyone with respect.
Shout-outs to Dar Dar, Aimee, Christian and Sandy behind the bar, and to Baheer and Nicky, whose favourite cooking show host is Uncle Roger. “I have to say, though, my favourite dish is Billy’s Mongolian beef,” she says. “And as a bartender, I love all the customers!”
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Billy’s Kitchen Chinese Bistro
Abbotts Hotel
47 Botany Road, Waterloo
Phone (02) 9395 0000
