Fei Jai, the beloved restaurant in Potts Point, has expanded its presence to the picturesque neighbourhood of Rose Bay. In a strategic move, the Lew family is set to bring the beloved Cantonese flavours within reach of the residents of Bellevue Hill, Vaucluse, and Dover Heights.
Their growing ties to the region and a wise assessment of local demand in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic are the driving forces behind this choice.
Peter Lew, co-owner of Fei Jai, reflected on the catalyst for this new venture, highlighting the high volume of deliveries to the Rose Bay vicinity during the pandemic. This realisation sparked the idea of a second Fei Jai location, aiming to serve a community that had become increasingly familiar with their cuisine.
The original Fei Jai, meaning “fat boy” in Cantonese, has been a staple in Potts Point for 14 years. With Lew and his wife, Nicole Galloway, now residing in Rose Bay, they saw an opportunity to offer a dining experience that caters to the local families who might prefer to stay within their neighbourhood rather than venture out.
A Familiar Yet Distinct Dining Experience
The new Rose Bay venue mirrors the intimate and moody atmosphere of its predecessor. Patrons can expect low lighting, elegant finishes, and a welcoming al fresco dining area that spills onto the street, creating an inviting setting for an evening out.
Menu Highlights
While the Rose Bay menu remains largely faithful to the Potts Point original, it features some adjustments due to the smaller kitchen size. Nonetheless, it offers an array of Fei Jai’s beloved dishes. Diners can indulge in handmade steamed dumplings such as prawn har gau and spinach and mushroom gow gee, or savour the signature crab omelette, crafted with delicate egg whites. The sweet and sour pork and kung pao chicken are standout options for those craving richer flavours.
Weekends at Fei Jai Rose Bay introduce a yum cha experience from midday, enhancing the variety and appeal of the menu.
Cocktails and Culinary Pedigree
Despite its cosy 45-seat capacity, Fei Jai Rose Bay includes a bar, allowing guests to enjoy a range of cocktails. The Fatboy Aperolada, with its refreshing blend of Aperol, coconut, rum, and orgeat, is perfect for summer, while the spicy yuzu Marg offers a tantalising mix of jalapeno-infused tequila, yuzu, and tajin.
Fei Jai’s culinary pedigree is noteworthy. Peter Lew’s uncle, Gilbert Lau, is a legend of the esteemed Flower Drum, and Nicole Galloway’s experience includes working at renowned establishments such as Tetsuya’s and Hugo’s. This rich background in fine dining is reflected in the quality and sophistication of the food and service at Fei Jai.
A Family Effort
The opening of Fei Jai Rose Bay was a true family endeavour. Nicole Galloway played a crucial role in designing the restaurant, assembling the staff, curating the wine list, and overseeing the operational setup—all while pregnant. The couple welcomed their third child, Louie, just a month before launching their new restaurant.
Fei Jai’s Rose Bay location embodies a neighbourhood restaurant vibe while delivering a culinary experience rooted in tradition and expertise. With its strategic location and carefully curated menu, it is poised to become a cherished dining destination for the local community.
Published Date 01-July-2024