2012 Gallery

Exotic, atmospheric and transformative of its Crown complex shell, Spice Temple exemplifies the best of high-end dining, where a sense of occasion bordering on fantasy is called for. The experience and finesse of Neil Perry’s Rockpool dynasty is evident in the accomplished match between food and place. Focusing on the regional cuisines of Sichuan, Yunnan, Hunan, Jiangxi, Guangxi and Xinjiang provinces, Spice Temple orchestrates synergies between the warmth and spiciness of the food, and the moody comfort and density of the various dining areas. Deliberate darkness and veiled drama in the design do not compromise the operation or ease of the place, or represent Asian sensibility and richness as stereotypical motifs. Earl Carter’s glowing photographic portraits shift the scale of spaces, and inject idiosyncrasy and long vistas into these otherwise introspective spaces. Evoking an imaginary journey through a Shanghai speakeasy, Spice Temple is a consummately theatrical, sexy and sensory eating space.