THE COMEBACK

NEIL PERRY RETURNS TO THE PANS AT MARGARET, HIS NEW EATERY IN SYDNEY’S DOUBLE BAY THAT’S SET TO OPEN NEXT MONTH.

You left Rockpool Dining Group to work on your charity, the Hope Delivery initiative. What’s lured you back?

A great site that was impossible to walk away from – right in the middle of the best village in the Eastern Suburbs.

What’s the plan?

A neighbourhood restaurant. That’s where people are feeling comfortable right now. Somewhere for a glass of wine or a burger on a Tuesday night, or to celebrate on a Saturday with a group of friends or family.

Tell us more…

Freshly shucked oysters, seafood, beautiful vegetables coming off the grill, great sandwiches at the bar and a wood-roasted rotisserie chicken that will be a signature – a good free-range version or the new Australian Bresse pre-ordered to feed six, which is one of a few luxury options.

After 40 years in the business you’ve seen and done it all. What are you most looking forward to this time around?

It’s been a long time since I’ve been in the kitchen. I’m looking forward to cooking for people again.

And the name?

I’m naming it after my mother. She helped create the care philosophy that’s really driven Rockpool. And she made me the cook that I am. I’m running this one by myself so it’s a tribute to her.

Pallas House, 30-36 Bay Street, Double Bay; margaretdoublebay.com