21 February 2024

Chef Matt Moran to open Compa &Sando in Canberra

| Lucy Ridge
Matt Moran wears blue, crosses arms, in front of kitchen where chefs are working.

Chef and restauranteur Matt Moran will open two restaurants in Canberra. Photo: Supplied.

Chef and restaurateur Matt Moran has announced he’ll open two sister venues in the heart of Canberra in the next few months. It’s the first time the multi-award-winning chef has brought his brand of produce-focused, approachable fine dining to the ACT.

The venues are set to be exciting additions to Canberra’s dining scene, with the celebrity chef singing the praises of the capital city.

“I get really excited when creating new menus. I can’t tell you how much I am looking forward to finally having roots in Canberra,” Moran told Region.

“Such fantastic produce comes out of this region, and where possible, we’ll be using locally sourced produce on Compa &Sando’s menus. Truffle season is going to be a real treat!”

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Compa will be a 116-seat restaurant focusing on Australian beef cooked on the custom Montague grill. Chef Moran will also showcase produce from the Moran Family Farm, including Black Angus beef and charcuterie cuts from the farm’s Berkshire pigs.

Matt Moran crosses arms in front of tiled wall.

Matt Moran: “I have worked with many local producers for years and can’t wait to open these two venues and have even more of a reason to spend time there.” Photo: Supplied.

The menu promises a strong emphasis on local food, and while few details are available for now, it’s clear that Moran is passionate about working with people in the region.

“Canberra has long had some really exciting restaurants and talent, and it’s a region I have been visiting for many years,” he said.

“I’ve been looking for opportunities in Canberra. I have worked with many local producers for years and can’t wait to open these two venues and have even more of a reason to spend time there.”

As well as meaty dishes, the venue will also have a range of pastas and exciting side dishes like Moran’s famous mashed potato, which became something of a cult classic in foodie circles after appearing on the menu at two-hatted Aria Restaurant in Circular Quay.

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Little sister &Sando is jumping on the deli-style sandwich train with cured meats, pickles and cheese offerings.

“&Sando will be my first sandwich shop; it’s going to be a lot of fun!” said Moran.

“I love a good sandwich, whether it’s eating one at home or from one of the many great sandwich shops nearby. There has been a pretty big sandwich boom across Australia recently, and we look forward to bringing our own offering to the table.”

Matt Moran has a career spanning over 30 years in the hospitality industry, including television appearances, cookbooks and award-winning restaurants. He has also kept his roots on the family property as a fourth-generation beef and lamb farmer.

Compa &Sando will open on Bunda Street near Raku sometime in Autumn. Further details and full menus will be released closer to opening day.

Visit Compa &Sando to stay up to date about the opening.

Original Article published by Lucy Ridge on Riotact.

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