Aja
ASIAN
132 BRIDPORT STREET, ALBERT PARK
(03) 9645 8388 • MAP P.294
LICENSED & BYO, CORKAGE $9 A BOTTLE
OPEN SUN–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–11PM, SAT 6PM–11PM
ENTREES $10–$15, MAINS $19.80–$33.50, DESSERTS $9.50
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Aja’s motto (and menu) promises ‘a journey to Asia will change the way you eat’ … time to manage your expectations. Located in the heart of Albert Park Village, this sultry pan-Asian restaurant serves up Asian cuisine with a twist, to varying degrees of success. For entree, sample the Hong Kong–influenced steamed duck and spinach dim sum, and for main, head south-east to Vietnam for the Mekong king prawns. The waitstaff are courteous and friendly, while remaining unobtrusive. The decor is quite moody, with dark panelled floors and wooden tables flanked by rattan chairs. The dark and heavy woods are snapped back to life with the warmth of the crimson lighting – positioned perfectly in fan-like shapes on the crisp white walls (actually, the entire restaurant is shaded in this red hue). Although the prices are on the steep side for its quality, Aja delights customers with friendly service in a sophisticated environment and is definitely more upmarket than your run-of-the-mill, cheap and cheerful (and noisy) Thai or Vietnamese restaurant.
Arkibar
ITALIAN
27 COVENTRY STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9690 6688 • MAP P.283
LICENSED
OPEN MON–WED 7.30AM–4PM, THURS & FRI 7.30AM–4PM, 6PM–9PM, SAT 8.30AM–11.45AM
ENTREES $5–$20.50, MAINS $16.50–$26.50, DESSERTS $4–$18.50
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
You have to be a little bit jealous of all the architects who work in this part of the city: just across the road from the Botanic Gardens, a quick stroll to the NGV and next door to Arkibar, a smart, relaxed cafe serving brilliant Italian dishes that are perfect for a client meeting or simply a treat instead of bring-from-home leftovers. Even when a chill enters the Melbourne air, the timber deck, shaded by a huge jacaranda, is the perfect spot to eavesdrop on the ladies who lunch or watch the hunky men in uniform from around the corner at Victoria Barracks. While there’s a small ‘permanent’ menu, the day’s specials reveal the gems: roasted cauliflower and parmesan soup, pasta with broccoli, pancetta and chilli, spaghettini with mussels and pipis, grilled whole garfish with a tomato and avocado salad. The wine list is nicely edited too, with locals alongside some selections from Italy and Spain, plus a ‘posh’ cellar list if it’s a special occasion.
Bacash
SEAFOOD/CONTEMPORARY
175 DOMAIN ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9866 3566 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN MON–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–LATE, SAT 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $17.50–$22.50, MAINS $42, DESSERTS $16.50–$23.50
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
You know you’ve entered a locals’ haunt when the head chef (and owner) personally welcomes you with open arms. Ah, Bacash, where regulars and newcomers alike know how much they’re loved and appreciated by Michael Bacash – the star of this show. This fine-dining seafood restaurant is classy, sophisticated and oh so suave, and is fittingly positioned on South Yarra’s elite Domain Road. But, most importantly, Bacash is one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Prices are towards the higher end – but worth every cent. The seafood is fresh, the flavours are robust, the service is outstanding, and the surrounds are stylishly understated. Dine on freshly shucked oysters for entree – they’re the perfect way to embark on your seafood sojourn. Then, for main, you’ll find it difficult to go past their signature dish, spaghetti marinara. It’s unashamedly impressive – brimming with marinara goodness and cooked to perfection. Glancing around the restaurant, most diners look a little ‘well to do’, but regardless of status or style, rest assured that Michael and his staff will make you feel welcomed.
Birichino
ITALIAN
315 MONTAGUE STREET, ALBERT PARK
(03) 9696 0117 • MAP P.294
LICENSED & BYO, CORKAGE $12 A BOTTLE
OPEN TUES, WED & SAT 6PM–LATE, THURS & FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $16–$21, MAINS $23–$39, DESSERTS $8–$15, DEGUSTATION $58–$128
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Buongiorno! Yep, you guessed it – Birichino is as Italiano as you get in Melbourne. In a trattoria-style setting and with service from accented waiters (who are the real deal, of course), you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’re dining in downtown Roma. Ah, the Italians – their passion for life is infectious and their love of food even more so. Birichino doesn’t shy away from its culture, which is what makes this place so fabulous. Although the flavours are traditional, the menu is sophisticated with an upmarket edge. Start with the whole par-boned quail, wrapped in prosciutto, grilled and served on a baked goat’s cheese and honey pudding, and follow it with Birichino’s classic roast potato gnocchi in a lamb-neck and fresh herb ragout. It’s melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. And the best bit? Birichino’s menu changes fortnightly, each time reflecting one of Italy’s twenty-one regions. Housed in a gorgeous terrace in trendy Albert Park Village, Birichino will delight, excite and make you want to book a romantic trip to Italia pronto. Buon appetito!
Bistro Thierry
FRENCH
511 MALVERN ROAD, TOORAK
(03) 9824 0888 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–4PM, 6PM–11PM
ENTREES $3.70–$28, MAINS $31.50–$39.50,DESSERTS $14.50–$20
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
This place could be in Almost French save for the fact that it’s located in the southern hemisphere. With Parisian-style topiary pots standing guard, this bustling bistro has attracted faithful regulars and new customers over the past ten years. Inside, the mood is very French, its warmth and intimacy helped by the cosy arrangement of tables, a wooden bar with a line of fine spirits and liquors, and old French prints on the walls. It’s the perfect place to entertain at lunch or impress a date at night. The Matrix-like waiters are both charming and efficient, but chatty when invited to be. The menu includes traditional French dishes, like beef Burgundy pie served with silky fine mash, and seasonal plates such as stuffed fresh figs with goat’s cheese, wrapped with the salty flavour of prosciutto. Wine lovers will be delighted with an excellent list, which includes the French wine regions as well as good coverage of Australian wines. For Francophiles or homesick French expats, Bistro Thierry is well recommended, but see your travel agent if pain persists.
Bopha Devi
CAMBODI
AN 27 RAKAIA WAY, DOCKLANDS
(03) 9600 1887 • MAP P.280
LICENSED
OPEN TUES & WED 6PM–LATE, THURS–SUN 12PM–LATE
ENTREES $8.90–$15.90, MAINS $17.90–$28.90, DESSERTS $4–$14.90
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED LOCATION ALSO IN YARRAVILLE
There aren’t many Cambodian restaurants on the map in Melbourne, and Bopha Devi is hidden off the beaten track in New Quay Promenade in the Docklands. They have a local following and strong support from visitors to this new part of the city, and while the reputation of the food is enough to get you in the door, the staff will make you want to come back. A subtle change from your typical Thai or Vietnamese food, Bopha Devi combines all the flavours and spices of the orient (Chinese, Indian and French, known as Khmer cuisine) with the amenity and service of an inner-city hot spot. While many restaurants in the Docklands seem to lack soul, Bopha Devi goes above and beyond with excellent service and home-style cooking inspired by the mother of the original chef, Chan Ouy. Traditional Asian ingredients make up a lot of the menu, and vegetarian and glutenfree dishes are clearly marked. Try the bort chien sweetcorn cakes to start followed by the choo chi pan-fried barramundi, and then simple gourmet Asian ice cream. Bopha Devi-licious.
The Botanical
CONTEMPORARY
169 DOMAIN ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9820 7888 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–11PM
SMALL DISHES $6–$23, LARGE DISHES $36–$74, DESSERTS $15–$25
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
At South Yarra’s beloved Bot everything old is new again. The renovated decor has a casual retro feel, and the service by pretty young things is fast and courteous. While the food here was always impressive, the new Bot feels more like a high-end pub than a stuffy fine-dining restaurant. The change has been great for the place. Head chef Cheong Liew’s modern Australian menu is a take on brasserie dishes, using locally grown produce – duck, pork, chicken, lamb, wagyu beef and lots of seafood. The small but exquisite entrees – roasted pork belly stuffed with mint, cinnamon and basil, or yellowfin tuna with egg yolk dressing and salmon caviar – will whet your appetite for the mains, which are hearty but not huge, and intended to leave room for dessert. Nestled on the Domain Road strip right across from the Tan, the new Bot still has its own bar next door, a more expansive dining room and a wine store, with a lengthy wine list. Watch out for the jazz nights and DJs on Sundays.
Dainty Sichuan
SIC
HUAN 176 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9078 1678 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN MON & WED–FRI 11.30AM–2.30PM, 4.30PM–9.30PM, SAT NOON–2.30PM, 4.30PM–10PM, SUN NOON–2.30PM, 4.30PM–9.30PM
ENTREES $6.80–$12.80, MAINS $10.80–$39.80
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
This restaurant is anything but dainty. Just one look at its menu, with its chilli ratings (1–3) and its fondness for offal – hot blood curd combination pot, anyone? – quickly conveys that this is not a place for the faint-hearted. A favourite of visiting international chefs, chilli lovers and food bloggers, Dainty Sichuan has earned a reputation for loud and punchy flavours and brusque yet efficient service. There are two levels to this boisterous institution, with its Chinese pavilion– like interiors of rosewood and heavy carvings. Downstairs, the front section specialises in Chongqing hot pot: diners choose a base soup – stock, double or spicy – and then a range of ingredients to cook in the soup at the table. It’s great fun and well suited to groups. Upstairs is à la carte and customers are presented with large pictorial menus with a mind-boggling array of hearty dishes. Try the dry stir-fried green beans, the tantalising cumin lamb or the very popular fish-flavoured eggplant chips. Whatever you order, Dainty Sichuan is guaranteed to give your tastebuds a workout!
Da Noi
ITALIAN
95 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9866 5975 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN MON 6.30PM–LATE, TUES–SAT NOON–3.30PM, 6.30PM–LATE
ENTREES $17–$26, MAINS $28–$34, DESSERTS $10–$17, DEGUSTATION $89
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
A menu seems mandatory in any restaurant, but for over ten years Da Noi has been doing rather well without one, much to the delight of those who have passed through its doors. Da Noi specialises in the simple flavours of southern Italian cooking from Sardinia. Spread over two narrow levels, it’s a tight and romantic squeeze between tables. But what it lacks in size it makes up for in beautiful produce, simply cooked, and in the casual elegance of this character-filled space. You have the option of letting the chef select for you from his repertoire, which changes daily according to the quality of market produce. You can stop the feeding at any stage but if you get to the end of five courses, it will cost $89 and all you’ll need to do is choose the wine from the Italian-only list. For special occasions or indulgent regular gatherings for couples or groups, Da Noi is a place that lets you focus on the important business of mingling while you leave the food to the experts.
David’s
SHANGHAI
4 CECIL PLACE, PRAHRAN
(03) 9529 5199 • MAP P.293
LICENSED & BYO EXCLUDING SAT, CORKAGE $10 A BOTTLE
OPEN MON–THURS NOON–3PM, 6PM–10.30PM, FRI NOON– 3PM, 6PM–11.30PM, SAT 6PM–11.30PM, SUN 6PM–10.30PM
ENTREES $1.95–$13.90, MAINS $18.90–$32.90, DESSERTS $6–$11.90, BANQUETS $39–$59
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
The saying ‘food nurtures the soul’ was never truer. Traditional Chinese tonic soups top the menu at David’s, leading the journey through Shanghai’s cuisine, but if you’re not in need of an immune (or libido) boost, their totally scrumptious dim sum is always available. Each style of dumpling is encased in a different homemade fresh wrapper, with steaming seafood, meat or vegetables inside. For mains, the huge Grandma’s Meatballs should induce moans of sweet and sour pleasure, and their Shanghai ‘Eight Treasure’ Duck, which requires two days’ notice, transcends earthly eating – steamed whole duck stuffed with sticky rice, lotus seed, straw and shiitake mushrooms, smoked ham, Chinese sausage, red dates and dried shrimp. It’s not all seafood and meat though – vegetarian options are marked clearly on the menu. For dessert, almond pudding is rightly popular – golden syrup drizzled over pumpkin rice pastries. The silver service is not daunting – rather, it’s friendly and warm, and for take-home tea tasting, David’s sells the prettiest selection of teapots.
The Deck
EUROPEAN
SHOP 12, 3 SOUTHGATE AVENUE, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9699 9544 • MAP P.283
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 5.30PM–11PM
ENTREES $3–$22, MAINS $19–$42, DESSERTS $15–$21
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
The location of the Deck is as much its own enemy as it is its friend. It’s often dismissed as being a tourist trap or a hub for romancing couples from the suburbs, office workers and those on business meetings because of its position in Southgate and its views of the Yarra, but the food and service can stand up for themselves. The kitchen aims to provide intricate and worked dishes, and the results are mostly favourable. Entrees like the duck parfait with a gewurtztraminer jelly, smoked breast and confit leg, and the double-baked sweetcorn and tarragon soufflé entice the palate with all the elements on the plate. Meat features heavily on the mains menu, with braised ox-cheek gnocchi, rabbit loin stuffed with confit leg accompanying a herb sausage, lamb rump and beef off the grill the stars of the meal, but a stunning baby rainbow trout and snapper fillet offer something for the pescetarians. Everything is delivered with attentive, punctual service, making the Deck so much more than a simple tourist trap.
The Fawkner
EUROPEAN
52 TOORAK ROAD WEST, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9867 5853 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN TUES–SUN 11.30AM–LATE
ENTREES $10–$18, MAINS $26–$34, DESSERTS $12–$16
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
GPS systems can rarely be trusted so, when popping this one in, be sure to include the ‘West’ in the address. Alternatively, look for Fawkner Park, a stretch of green across the road from heritage apartment buildings and the Fawkner, your touch of Tuscany on Toorak. On a balmy night, the full-length windows open onto the street and the candles flicker in time with the breeze, a perfect setting for a first date or a fiftieth anniversary dinner. The restaurant is romantic but also filled with small groups of friends. You expect fancy in South Yarra and this is no disappointment. Wine is generally purchased by the bottle (minimal by-the-glass options) and meals are not cheap, but they are good. The bar lounge area is welcoming, with brown leather and an open fire, while the dining space is light and roomy, though not large. Background music sets a slightly faster pace than you might like to enjoy a meal of this calibre but traffic noise is, thankfully, minimal. Take your time and savour the experience.
Fog
CONTEMPORARY
142 GREVILLE STREET, PRAHRAN
(03) 9521 3155 • MAP P.293
LICENSED
OPEN TUES–FRI NOON–LATE, SAT 10AM–3AM, SUN 10AM– MIDNIGHT
ENTREES $9–$26, MAINS $31–$52, DESSERTS $16–$24, BANQUETS $62–$75
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Arriving at Fog is an event, with the ‘celebrity’ blue carpet, the hostess greeting and the black glossy Wood Marsh–designed interior. Albuquerque native chef Jeremy Sutphin continues the Tex fusion fun he brought to Melbourne, with king prawn tostadas and spicy fried calamari. Then he continues with more international influences, like sashimi, wagyu bolognaise and veal ragout. The night menu is pretty much all seafood and meat – it’s not really a venue for vegies – and mains are dished up with potato crisps on the side, keeping the bar vibe going. Sutphin’s upbringing sneaks out with something sweet – the US classic banana cream pie, complete with a graham cracker base. If you’re not feeling so Yankee Doodle Dandy, there’s also crème brûlée, parfait and bavarois – or the ultra decadence of the Mexique molten chocolate cake. Fog also dishes out lighter choices at the bar – such as fresh shucked oysters or burgers – and when the party’s over, there’s also brunch and lunch.
France-Soir
FRENCH
11 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9866 8569 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–MIDNIGHT
ENTREES $13.50–$27, MAINS $33–$45, DESSERTS $13.50–$18
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
France-Soir is intimidating for first-timers. Upon arrival you’ll find yourself squeezed between diners and the bar. Turn around and you’re in a waistcoated waiter’s path. Step aside and you’ll only obstruct another. When you’ve completed this dance, you might be told your table is not ready. It’s all part of the spectacle that is France-Soir, and Melburnians have been lapping it up since 1986. Stereotypically French, staff are either aloof or amorous, the menu boasts escargot, beef bourguignon and steak tartare, and mains are served with pommes frites. Brave – and largely unsuccessful – is the diner who requests mash instead. It’s all rather flippant and fun, but things get serious with a wine list of biblical proportions. New-world wines help the wallet, but a large French selection, sourced by founder and owner Jean-Paul Prunetti himself, has won critical acclaim for years. It’s a fitting selection for a venue that is all about lavish celebration, excessive eating and special occasions.
Franco Choo’s
MEDITERRANEAN/ASIAN
179A HIGH STREET, PRAHRAN
(03) 9529 7310 • MAP P.293
LICENSED
OPEN TUES–SAT 6PM–11PM
ENTREES $10–$15, MAINS $20–$27, DESSERTS $10
VISA, MC, EF TPOS
A quiet dinner nook amid the hustle and bustle of Prahran is a real find, something that maybe you and, oh, ten or so other people know about. Thank goodness some of those people are rubbish at keeping secrets, or the likes of Franco Choo’s might never have been shared for the rest of us to enjoy. Franco Choo’s is that genuine article: a low-fi, cosy oasis, far from Chapel’s maddening crowds. It’s a teeny tiny space built with the charm and style of a bygone era – homely knickknacks, rustic furnishings, and warm retro fit-out. To match this welcome time warp, the service is, fittingly, of the old school: laidback and friendly. A compact but thoughtful menu of two entrees, two mains and two desserts, which rotates fortnightly according to seasonal produce, is inspired by a Mediterranean–Asian fusion. There might be a leg of duck roasted with a chestnut filling, or prawn wontons, prawn oil, ginger and spring onions. To accompany, an adventurous wine list offers grape varieties from far-flung regions and those produced right on our doorstep.
Giuseppe Arnaldo & Sons
ITALIAN
GROUND FLOOR, CROWN CASINO, 8 WHITEMAN STREET, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9694 7400 • MAP P.282
WWW.IDRB.COM/GIUSEPPE_MAIN_FLASH
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–4PM, 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $18–$26, MAINS $17–$97, DESSERTS $14–$26
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
In 2008 Maurizio Terzini and Robert Marchetti, most recently of Sydney’s Icebergs and North Bondi Italian Food, created their new Melbourne masterpiece – Giuseppe Arnaldo &Sons. Stalwarts of the Italian food scene in both Sydney and Melbourne, Terzini and Marchetti have outdone themselves stylistically and foodwise at their Crown location. The sexy patterned walls, the glass cabinet packed with dangling salumi, the intimate low-lit spaces – this is Italian trattoria done Melbourne style. Given its location, GAS is inviting to tourists and locals alike. Some are in their polar-fleece hoodies, while others sit gingerly in evening wear. It suits the decor, really. Hey, even the waiters wear sneakers with their white coats. Instead of being divided up into entree, main and dessert, the menu is composed of antipasti, formaggi, offal, carni, verdure and other Italian words that sound amazing when spoken with the correct accent but absolutely dreadful coming from the mouths of most Aussies. However you pronounce it, the food is classic, rich and delicious and GAS is a dining experience not to be missed.
Harveys
CONTEMPORARY
10 MURPHY STREET, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9867 3605 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN MON & SUN 7AM–2PM, TUES–SAT 7AM–2PM, 6PM–10PM
ENTREES $12–$19, MAINS $24–$42, DESSERTS $13–$25
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
It’s all very regimented at Harveys: breakfast until two, brunch and lunch twelve to two-thirty and dinner six to ten. Bookings are advisable, as is your Sunday best; after all, this is South Yarra and we’re oh so refined. Hip young coffee types won’t appreciate the rules but well-dressed baby boomers will be comforted by predictability. Sophisticated service guides diners throughout the day’s meals, with an unspoken but firm ‘this is how we do things’ tone. Muted grey and olive interiors have a calming effect and open fires compensate for the lack of early sun on the terrace. None of it would work if the food hadn’t consistently delivered for seventeen years, although dishes from current chef George Santalucia, ex Caffee Cucina and Ezard, can be overly complex. An entree of scallop ravioli, for example, includes carrot and sauterne beurre blanc and a salad of ginger grapefruit and coriander. Simpler offerings like grainfed eye fillet avoid fussiness but are equally rewarding. The conservative wine list follows the same tack. Chin chin, darling.
Honey Bar
CONTEMPORARY
345 CLARENDON STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9696 3311 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY 11.30AM–LATE
ENTREES $4–$14.50, MAINS $11.50–$28.50, DESSERTS $8.50–$12
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
‘Honey, I’m Home’ is emblazoned across the chests of those behind the bar and that’s exactly what this place feels like – home. Now entering its terrible twos, this toddler is one you’d be happy to show off to your mates while enjoying a speciality beer or cocktail. High tables and stools, bench seats and spots at the bar are all comfortably placed to watch the trams go by or to catch the magnificent light of the sun setting over South Melbourne. The menu offers standard pub fare with added flare. Small tables work best here and the food is good and wholesome. The chicken breast with a mustard sauce is scrumptious and the parma is always a fave. It comes with the best fries in the district – perfectly crisp and full of flavour – but the meal isn’t small. Finish the whole thing at your own risk – you have been warned. Owners Steve and Jasmine are often on hand to chat to customers and (good!) local music acts perform on a semi-regular basis. Homely.
Jacques Reymond
FRENCH
78 WILLIAMS ROAD, PRAHRAN
(03) 9525 2178 • MAP P.303
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–2PM, 5PM–10PM
DEGUSTATION $98–$150
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Whatever else is happening outside number 78, everything becomes right with the world once you’re inside. A leading pioneer, the acclaimed chef Jacques Reymond was the first to introduce us to the degustation. The restaurant remains at the cutting edge of contemporary cuisine, with today’s procession of small plates showcasing an international palate. Accents of Asian flavours and textures create symbiotic harmony over a foundation of French mastery. Reymond is serious about good food but he doesn’t let his guests take it too seriously. Small, fresh corn niblets sit beside chilli popcorn to tickle your tastebuds. Fisherman’s Friends flavour a light and delicate pear dessert. It’s not just the food that turns you on. The wine list is extensive, with a predominantly French selection, including Dom Pérignon by the glass. Service here is as good as anywhere in the world – warm yet correct – and does the job of making anyone feel comfortable. This fabulous nineteenth-century mansion, and all of its culinary best, is not just for celebrations.
Kagu Ra Zaka
JAPANESE
266 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9827 2608 • MAP P.292
LICENSED & BYO, CORKAGE $6 A BOTTLE
OPEN MON–SAT 11.30AM–3PM, 5.30PM–LATE
ENTREES $6–$17, MAINS $15–$30, DESSERTS $10–$15
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
If you’ve never been to Japan, Kagu Ra Zaka provides an opportunity to get a little taste of the land of the rising sun in Melbourne. Staffed by the most attentive, kind and actually Japanese waitstaff you can imagine, the restaurant offers up a typical traditional menu with a few pleasant surprises, and an atmosphere that is calm and casual. With those awesome tables that make it look like you’re being all traditional and sitting on the floor, but actually have plenty of leg space underneath, you’ll feel so authentic it’s ridiculous. And you have to take off your shoes too! Named after a Tokyo neighbourhood known for its complex and haute cuisine, the restaurant doesn’t exactly scream Iron Chef, but the meals are generous and delicious. Vegetarian options are fairly limited, but a pescatarian or omnivore will be extremely well looked after. Don’t forget to check the specials board, where some of the more exotic options will be hiding.
Kamel
MIDDLE EASTERN
19 VICTORIA AVENUE, ALBERT PARK
(03) 9696 1386 • MAP P.294
LICENSED
OPEN MON–THURS 5PM–10PM, FRI–SUN NOON–3PM, 5PM–10PM
TAPAS $4–$25, DESSERTS $5.50–$15
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Every well-considered Middle Eastern creation here begs – pleads – for just one more bite. Kamel is a homely little spot amid the gentrified suburbia of Albert Park, but its interior is as modern and progressive as its menu. Fresh takes on ornate Arab decor, and an intimate timber-deck courtyard that screams inner south: this place doesn’t struggle for atmosphere. Gorgeous North African notes permeate the menu. The pastilla – imagine a most elaborate and ornate meat pie – is lovingly stuffed with duck confit and prunes, and takes the Moroccan staple to dizzying heights. Vegetarians can feel right at home among the shared mezze: there are too many highlights to mention. Be sure to include the red lentil and chickpea falafels, though, and the juicy, well-textured dolmades on the venture around the Mediterranean rim. Kamel’s Turkish coffee is a thick, full-bodied Arab send-off – a farewell rich enough to cleanse the palate of a memorable family of flavours.
Koko
JAPANESE
LEVEL 3, CROWN TOWERS, 8 WHITEMAN STREET, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9292 6886 • MAP P.282
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–11PM
ENTREES $16–$26.50, MAINS $32–$49, BANQUETS $85–$198 ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
For over a decade now, Koko has been one of the quiet achievers of Melbourne fine dining. While flashier restaurants have come along – like Nobu, which opened to much fanfare in 2008 – Koko is still standing. Its staying power is a testament to its longstanding chef, Allan Koh, who brings real personality and innovation to Japanese cooking. The menu is expansive – and expensive – offering a wide range of sushi and sashimi, hot pots, soups and salads. Try the creative entrees – deepfried crab and fish mousse wrapped in beancurd with ponzu sauce or green tea noodles wrapped with whiting and filled with soy, mirin and sake. For mains, Koko has great seafood, but for a real treat, try the teppanyaki, where chefs grill your food before your eyes, or splurge on 300 grams of pan-seared mayura wagyu beef with asparagus and abalone mushrooms. For a slightly more affordable experience, Koko offers bento boxes for lunch. With its tranquil setting within a stone-filled water garden and its panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline, Koko is absolute Zen.
Lamaro’s
CONTEMPORARY
273–279 CECIL STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9690 3737 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3.30PM, 6PM–10.30PM
ENTREES $18–$21.50, MAINS $24–$40, DESSERTS $14–$19.50
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
A South Melbourne institution, Lamaro’s continues the fine tradition of the Australian gastropub. Its elegant, cosy and inviting main dining room infuses modern minimalism with warmth and character. Material furnishings seem to absorb noise and, although the room is generally full, there’s a soothing, quiet hush to the conversation. As expected, the wine list is extensive, with local and international options and a decent range of wines by the glass. The food easily lives up to the very enticing menu descriptions. The produce is fresh and of the highest quality; organic and homemade ingredients feature on the menu. The staff are also a stand-out feature of Lamaro’s. They are pleasant and genuinely friendly. Moreover, they are confident and knowledgeable, happy to elaborate on the menu and assist you in deciding, because that’s probably the most stressful part of dining at Lamaro’s. Once you’ve ordered, the meals arrive impressively fast, but there is no pressure to rush. Just sit back, relax and enjoy.
Lento
ITALIAN
304 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9827 7541 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN SUN–THURS 10AM–10PM, FRI & SAT 10AM–MIDNIGHT
ENTREES $8–$19, MAINS $23–$34, DESSERTS $3.50–$14
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
Who knew it was possible to fall in love with a loaf of bread? Dreams of Lento’s glorious house-made sourdough linger long after the bill arrives, but to dub something that trivial a highlight here is no small call. Everything else is spot on too. Lento will cure a raging case of food envy as, no matter what you end up ordering, there’s no way you’ll want to swap it. From crispy, red wine–doused pork belly to the nourishing duck risotto, each modern classic here is a pleasure. The dining room – all white walls and dark wood – is elegantly simple, allowing the food and service to shine. The delightfully odd, taxidermied goat up the back hints that, while the space is suited to a refined clientele, it’s certainly not at all stuffy. This is the kind of place where the waitress seems to know your name whether you’re a regular or reserving a table for the first time. You’ll hope Lento (Italian for ‘slow’) lives up to its name so the meal never ends.
Lord Cardigan
CONTEMPORARY
59 CARDIGAN PLACE, ALBERT PARK
(03) 9645 5305 • MAP P.294
LICENSED & BYO TUES, CORKAGE $10
OPEN TUES–FRI 7.30AM–10PM, SAT & SUN 8.30AM–LATE
ENTREES $18–$24, MAINS $27–$48, DESSERTS $14.50
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
The Lord Cardigan, like its owners, is light, elegant and modern. Dominique Bolger glides effortlessly across the floor smoothing out any wrinkles before they even appear, and there’s a smile for all, and a nod of acknowledgement to regulars. Her husband, John Singer, a Herman Schneider alumnus, delivers a thoughtful menu that reflects the time of year, even the time of day. With a mostly seasonal European palate, and the occasional tour via Asia or the Middle East, each dish is beautifully cooked from quality produce by a man who knows his craft. Moist, crisp, balanced and delicious are some of the adjectives humming in the mouths at the other tables – they could be talking about anything, from the stuffed zucchini flowers to the fresh crab, fried in nori. There’s also an agreeable hum about the international wine list and the suggested wines by the glass. Though breakfast has customers singing its praises, the Lord Cardigan is well worth a lunch- or night-time visit for any style of occasion.
Mamaca’s Mediterranean Kitchen
GREEK
210 CHAPEL STREET, PRAHRAN
(03) 9521 5694 • MAP P.293
LICENSED & BYO SUN–THURS, CORKAGE $8 A BOTTLE
OPEN TUES–THURS 5.30PM–10.30PM, FRI NOON–11PM, SAT 5.30PM–11PM, SUN 5.30PM–10PM
TAPAS $4–$13.80, DESSERTS $9–$15
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Mamaca’s is a big, warm and, above all, familiar Hellenic hug. On the end of Chapel Street where one expects style to reign expensively, mercilessly supreme, Mamaca’s banks on simplicity. Though it sometimes masquerades as a Mediterranean haven, make no mistake, Mamaca’s Kitchen – that’s Mama’s Kitchen – is as Greek as head chef Leonidas Kyratsis. There’s no doubting that Melbourne harbours a golden standard of Greek food that, if poorly executed, will inevitably bear the brunt of Yiayia. Mamaca’s dishes definitely have a maternal love to them, and though they’re more evolutionary than revolutionary, you can definitely score a worthy Greek fix here. Clear-cut basics like chops, chicken skewers and a huge range of dips are kept simple and affordable, and don’t disappoint. These dishes are made to share, so be sure to embrace Mamaca’s in a group. Eggplant saganaki is brought out in a sizzling instant and headlines what is a very capable vegetarian selection. The low-key Hellenic decor only adds to the friendly, intimate vibe, and, weather permitting, the courtyard is a must.
Maya Tequila Bar & Grill
MEXICAN
74 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9866 8836 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN MON–THURS 5PM–11PM, FRI 5PM–1AM, SAT 6PM–1AM, SUN 6PM–11PM
ENTREES $4.50–$11.50, MAINS $11.50–$30, DESSERTS $8.50
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
If you’re looking for more than guacamole and burritos, Maya offers intrepid palates a taste of real Mexican food and drink, as well as some familiar Tex Mex favourites. Munch on complimentary corn chips and salsa as you inspect the compact food list and the longer drinks menu. A snack plate provides a great introduction with crunchy corn baskets of lemony jalapenos or shredded beef. Vegetarians will love the choice, and should try the queso fundido with sliced cactus and cheese. Maya definitely lives up to its name and the menu provides an educational experience in tequila and mescal. There are about forty-three different tequilas to try, ranging from $8.50 to $145 per shot, depending on age and quality. If you need to mask the tequila somewhat, you’ll be happy to know they make one of the best margaritas in town, as well as other Mexican-style cocktails. Maya’s earthy look features cactus sunset landscapes and a delightful covered courtyard made for warm summer nights. Weeknights are laidback but expect the dial to turn to fiesta mode on weekends.
TOP 10 FAMILY-FRIENDLY
WHETHER IT’S JUST YOU AND THE LITTLE ONES OR THE ENTIRE EXTENDED FAMILY, THESE RESTAURANTS ACCOMMODATE ALL KINDS WITH SPACE AND A SMILE.
The younger ones will love the prawn spring rolls wrapped in fresh lettuce and dipped in tangy sauce, while adults will appreciate the owner’s magic tricks and the fresh, zingy flavours of his Vietnamese cooking.
Birdie Num Nums
745 NICHOLSON STREET, CARLTON NORTH
(03) 9380 1950
UNLICENSED
OPEN DAILY 8AM–4PM
BREAKFASTS $5.50–$15.95, LUNCHES $5.95–$16.95,
DESSERTS $3–$6.95
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
A quality cafe with an extra wide door, ample room for mums, kids and prams, and a dedicated play area out the back make this a favourite among mothers groups.
This classy Vietnamese invites children to peruse an adultstyle mini menu with Vietnamese delights that’ll have their tastebuds tingling for days.
Offering a dedicated kids breakfast menu on weekends, Kamel is well equipped for families at any time. The North African dinner menu is ideal for sharing, and you can spread out a little upstairs and out the back.
The original ‘Porchie’s’ still provides fast, friendly dining for all ages. The pizzas and pastas are generous, hearty and mostly satisfying, and the old photos of families who have dined here are both heartwarming and hilarious.
Brightly decorated with murals and paper cuttings, Los Amates pleases the little ones with make-your-own tacos and chillifree kids options. Adults will enjoy the big and versatile menu, and a cheeky shot of tequila or two!
Between 5pm and 6.30pm is ‘dinner for little people’: indulge in a little colouring in, wolf down a kids pizza and ice cream sundae too, leave a tenner for their trouble and be home by 8pm. Delightful.
This pizza and pasta house welcomes all types, including coeliacs, vegetarians and children. It does all this with a friendly smile, serving its famous gourmet pizzas and more in a charmingly kitsch trattoria-style setting.
It’s no wonder pizza features on any list of family favourites. Pizza Meine Liebe will indoctrinate a new generation of pizza lovers – and maybe even entertain them with a ball of pizza dough while you wait.
Roule Galette
26 REBECCA WALK, MELBOURNE
(03) 9614 3606
LICENSED
OPEN TUES–THURS 8AM–4PM, FRI 8AM–9PM, SAT 10AM–5PM
ENTREES $5–$7.50, mains $7.50–$18, desserts $4–$14
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
Bringing life back to Batman’s Park on the Yarra, Roule Galette serves sweet and savoury crepes for lunch and Friday dinner too. Perfect for a bite after a trip to the aquarium or Immigration Museum.
Maze
FRENCH/ASIAN
LEVEL 1, CROWN METROPOL, CORNER CLARENDON AND WHITEMAN STREETS, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9292 8300 • MAP P.282
WWW.GORDONRAMSAY.COM/MAZEMELBOURNE
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY 6.30AM–10.30AM, NOON–2.30PM, 6PM–11PM
TASTING PLATES $14–$28, DESSERTS $14–$22, DEGUSTATION $120
VISA, MC, AMEX
Maze is the finest of fine dining – literally. The dishes are so delicate, light and airy. They are truly little works of art with ingredients that are mere shadows of their naturally grown selves. Presentation-wise, the dishes are amazingly precise and a marvel to behold – even if they look nothing like what you thought you ordered. Once you’re seated, the head waiter explains how the menu works with an elegantly soft voice that requires a lean-in to catch a phrase or two – the restaurant is noisy when busy. Basically, it’s a tasting menu – hence the small serves. They recommend at least four dishes per person. The seven-course degustation menu is perhaps an easier – and potentially cheaper – option. The menu does require a healthy sense of adventure, with delicacies like crispy pigs’ ears, braised veal tail and sweetbreads. Service is a mixed bag. The staff are cheerful and hard-working but don’t seem to have found a groove yet. While it’s no place for a big appetite, Maze creates edible works of art.
Mecca Bah
MIDDLE EASTERN
55A NEWQUAY PROMENADE, DOCKLANDS
(03) 9642 1300 • MAP P.280
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY 11AM–11PM
ENTREES $7–$14.50, MAINS $18–$27.50, DESSERTS $10.50–$14.50
GROUP BOOKINGS ONLY
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
If your only experience of Middle Eastern food has been an emergency kebab at 2am, Mecca Bah is an accessible place to extend your culinary tour. With chintzy cushions and flickering lanterns, and glittering harbour views, it’s easy to imagine the yachts sailing by might contain a sheikh or two. While you may feel transported to an exotic new world, the food shouldn’t prove too unfamiliar. Relying on Turkish, Lebanese and Moroccan influences, Mecca Bah’s painted tagines and oversized platters are laden with chickpeas, yoghurt and tender spit-roasted lamb doused in cinnamon and harissa spices. And yes, they also serve kebabs (a lot fresher than your typical late-night variety, too). If you can bear to skip the baklawa for dessert, do try a trio of Turkish delight, fig and halva (a Middle Eastern sweet made from tahini) ice creams – likely to convert any boring neapolitan fan. Do, however, avoid ordering the Merguez sausage. Though it’s written as plural on the mezze menu, you’ll find yourself slugged $13.50 for one lonely sausage and a few salad leaves.
Middle Park Hotel
BRITISH
102 CANTERBURY ROAD, MIDDLE PARK
(03) 9690 1958 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–10PM
ENTREES $15–$22, MAINS $24–$68, DESSERTS $15–$18
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Melbourne has a magnificent tradition – the gallant effort to create a true, deep culture in this city. The Middle Park Hotel – over a century old – is littered with authentic nods to the city that was, and still is. Gorgeous brass railings, monogrammed carpeting, and oak sourced from the old Melbourne Cricket Club Long Room line the magnificent restoration. Pub-master extraordinaire Julian Gerner (the Newmarket, the Royal Saxon) knows what the pub experience ought to be, and enlisted increasingly prominent Brits Paul Wilson and David Marshall to give the menu heartiness and flair. The offerings are dominated by a whopping variety of steaks, headlined by the Victorian Black Angus – this is a pub steak that’s elevated to something a little more sublime by tender, loving attention. One of the very best you’ll find in Melbourne. Paying extra for steak sides is a slap in the face, but it’s worth the price of admission. The Middle Park pays homage to life in marvellous times – elegant, top to toe.
The Millswyn
FRENCH/CONTEMPORARY
131–133 DOMAIN ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9866 5627 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN TUES–FRI 11AM–LATE, SAT & SUN 8AM–LATE
ENTREES $16–$19, MAINS $36–$65, DESSERTS $12–$19.50
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
In Lynch’s old spot, the Millswyn had big shoes to fill. While Lynch’s seemed to be full of greying suits eating expensive steak at business lunches, the Millswyn aims at a younger crowd of more health-conscious but equally well-heeled South Yarra types. Decked out by design firm Hecker Duthrie – famed for St Ali – the place looks like a Portsea mansion filled with an entire Scandinavian furniture showroom. Head chef Nathan Johnson offers a simple, classy, ‘neo-French’ menu, with starters like tuna carpaccio and the surprisingly spectacular superfood salad of avocado, and rich mains like ocean trout with locally caught mussels, white white and chive veloute, a succulent twice-cooked pork belly or the whole roast chicken to share, if you’re game. For dessert, there are delicious cheese platters and peanut butter ice-cream sandwiches. If that’s all too rich, there are side salads, charcuterie, pasta and well-chosen wines and signature cocktails. The Millswyn also serves a delicious, if pricey, brunch and lunch for a post-Tan bite to eat. Best of all, like its predecessor, it still serves a very nice steak.
Nobu
JAPANESE
CROWN CASINO, 8 WHITEMAN STREET, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9292 7879 • MAP P.282
LICENSED
OPEN MON–THURS NOON–2.30PM, 6PM–10.30PM, FRI & SAT NOON–3PM, 6PM–11PM, SUN NOON–3PM, 6PM–10.30PM
ENTREES $12–$60, MAINS $20–$145, DESSERTS $16–$19
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
The location of Nobu, a restaurant with international pedigree and a cache of celebrity followers, should come as no surprise: Crown Casino. If you have the chance before your meal, Google the chef and you’ll find a trove of tidbits about Nobu Matsuhisa’s eccentric background, including his appearance in (Austin Powers’s) Goldmember. The restaurant’s strength lies in its ability to bring together the fragments of Chef Nobu’s varied background. The space itself contrasts Japanese constraint with contemporary artifice, while the menu exhibits his fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavours. Signature dishes include yellowtail sashimi with jalapeno and black cod with miso. More traditional, yet not necessarily conventional, items on the menu include toro of the hon maguro (fatty part of the bluefin tuna) and wagyu steak. Nobu also provides access to the exclusive range of Hokusetsu sakes. Whether you take a seat in the upstairs bar, which has a limited menu, or in the downstairs dining area or sushi bar, Nobu’s combination of Japanese formality with a little South American la vida loca should appeal to everyone.
The Palace by Luke Mangan
CONTEMPORARY
505 CITY ROAD, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9699 6410 • MAP P.294
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–10PM
ENTREES $18–$22, MAINS $38–$42, DESSERTS $14–$39, DEGUSTATION $95–$145
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
The nether regions of South Melbourne seem an unlikely location for high-profile chef Luke Mangan to open his first Melbourne establishment. Away from shops and offices, this gastropub is made a destination by the strength of his name, despite the fact that Mangan doesn’t play a daily hands-on role. In true pub fashion, the main bar has a large plasma TV, though the surroundings and middle-aged clientele are better heeled than at your average drinking hole. Plush grey carpets and beige interiors generally wouldn’t survive in any ordinary pub. In the restaurant itself there’s a full-length window straight into the kitchen so you can watch the chefs at work. The menu (and prices) steers more towards bistro than schnitzel, and includes Mangan’s signature dish: a delicate kingfish carpaccio with zingy ginger flavours. There’s also plenty of red meat, with steak coming in six different cuts, including the chateaubriand for two. While the Palace may not have the grandeur of Mangan’s other restaurants, its star-studded menu and attention to detail will definitely take your pub experience to another level.
The Point
CONTEMPORARY
AQUATIC DRIVE, ALBERT PARK
(03) 9682 5566 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $22–$35, MAINS $36–$46, DESSERTS $17–$24
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
It’s common knowledge that dining at the Point is a breathtaking experience. Their reputation is of undeniable, delectable dining at its finest, and you won’t be disappointed. The curved dining area is all stark white walls, dark carpet and floor-to-ceiling glass with impeccable views of Albert Park Lake. In the cellar, the floor-to-ceiling glass is replaced by walls of European wine – the space is perfect for private dining for up to twelve people. This luxurious, sleek establishment is not heavily decorated, which is a good thing – any baubles would probably detract from more important things, like the exquisite menu or views of the water sports (well, boating) on the lake. Executive chef Scott Pickett has created a brilliant menu, with contemporary, predominantly meat dishes – they’re known for their steaks, sourced from the finest Australian beef. Their knowledgeable staff deliver just enough information on the intricate dishes. So sit back, experience whitetable service that exceeds your highest expectations and relax with the magical tunes of Mylo and down-tempo chill-out tracks drifting through the accommodating venue.
Pure South
CONTEMPORARY
SHOP 2, 3 SOUTHGATE AVENUE, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9699 4600 • MAP P.283
LICENSED
OPEN SUN–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–LATE, SAT 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $17.90–$38.90, MAINS $29.50–$50, DESSERTS $14.90–$29.90
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Pure South’s ambition is to offer Melbourne the freshest produce from Tasmania, King Island and Flinders Island. If you’re thinking paddock-to-plate cheeses, beef and seafood, you’re nearly there. Just add the local wines. There’s a lot to like about this place and top of the list is its location. Pure South has one of Southgate’s premium positions on the Yarra River. The outdoor dining area, with its wicker seats and water views, is as close as Melbourne gets to Sydney, and hums with the buzz of passers-by. The restaurant is refined with dark wood details and marble accents. Dry-aged beef and aquaculture are what Pure South is known for, although there are vegetarian entrees and a cheese-based main. Carpaccio of venison garnished with celeriac remoulade and a smoked quail egg delicately mingles sweet and sharp tastes. Crumbed garfish is counterbalanced with lime, fennel and pink grapefruit and piled high with tiny edible flowers. A fourteen-page wine list (by the bottle) rounds off the boutique locavore experience and makes this an impressive destination for locals and tourists alike.
Railway Hotel
GASTROPUB
280 FERRARS STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9690 5092 • MAP P.294
LICENSED
OPEN MON 6PM–9PM, TUES 6PM–10PM, WED–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–10PM, SAT 1PM–4PM, 6PM–10PM, SUN 1PM–5.30PM, 6PM–9PM
ENTREES $8.50–$24.50, MAINS $14.50–$36, DESSERTS $9.50–$22
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
Dating back to the days when pubs were assiduously named for their proximity to infrastructure, South Melbourne’s Railway Hotel remains a gem of old Emerald Hill. An enormous L-shaped vintage bar stretches through two rooms and provides plenty of space to chat over pots of the ten ales on tap while you work up an appetite for a counter, which you can enjoy in the dining room or at the bar. Entrees range from Chinese-spice chicken drummies to free-range Otway pork belly, while mains feature generous quality cuts. The terracotta pans – delicious slow-cooked scallops, pork or lentils served with roti breads – are a steal at around $15, and the chargrill is the real deal: enormous 300- to 400-gram steaks served on smashed chats and seasonal vegetables. The locals are friendly, unpretentious and happy; the place rings with good times. Retro kitsch is dotted throughout the pub, and outside you’ll find thatched huts and a tiki bar.
Red Emperor
CHINESE
UPPER LEVEL, SOUTHGATE, 3 SOUTHGATE AVENUE, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9699 4170 • MAP P.283
LICENSED
OPEN MON–SAT NOON–3PM, 6PM–LATE, SUN 11AM–4PM, 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $7–$18, MAINS $18–$148, DESSERTS $4–$128
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
The kind of old-school restaurant institution written about in Melbourne tourist guides, Red Emperor has managed to avoid becoming stale, and keeps pumping out fresh and delicious food in a rather classy setting. So many Melbourne families have Sunday yum cha traditions here that it’s amazing anyone else can ever get a seat. The service is kind and attentive, and the view over the Yarra to Flinders Street Station makes you sigh and say, ‘Ah, Melbourne.’ Vegetarians are surprisingly well catered for, with the menu even noting that vegetarian oyster sauce can be used on request – a sentence that will have any vego swooning. Both yum cha and à la carte menus are on the pricey side, but no more than you’d expect for Southbank, and it’s well worth the money. That said, a chicken dish that requires forty-eight hours’ notice is $148, and there’s even a dessert for $128 (granted, it is bird’s nest, a real delicacy) so you’d want those to be seriously good to be worth the money. They surely are.
Rockpool Bar & Grill
CONTEMPORARY
CROWN CASINO, 8 WHITEMAN STREET, SOUTHBANK
(03) 8648 1900 • MAP P.282
LICENSED
OPEN SUN–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–11PM, SAT 6PM–11PM
ENTREES $22–$240, MAINS $20–$180, DESSERTS $6–$25
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Neil Perry is probably one of Australia’s best known culinary faces and his philosophy of sourcing the finest produce is stamped heavily on each of his ventures (and reflected in the prices of his food). Whether the price is justified is up to the individual but, judging by the success of Rockpool in Melbourne, no one is complaining. The dining room is large, chic and looks almost like a men’s club until the very professional staff begin whizzing around, bringing perfectly aged, cut and cooked steaks to tables and the private dining room. Steaks are not the only favourite on the Rockpool menu, with an equal emphasis on perfectly cooked seafood, pasta and salads. If you’re not up to the lavish dining experience, you can sit at the bar and have one of Melbourne’s most loved wagyu burgers instead. The wine list is in depth and discerning, with fifty-two pages of local and rare wines put together by the 2010 Sommelier of the Year, David Lawler.
St Ali
CONTEMPORARY
12–18 YARRA PLACE, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9686 2990 • MAP P.282
LICENSED
OPEN SUN–TUES 7AM–5PM, WED–SAT 7AM–10PM
ENTREES $4–$17.50, MAINS $14–$44, DESSERTS $12.50– $16.50, BANQUETS $60–$80, DEGUSTATION $90
ALL MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED
Mr Squiggle keeps an eye on St Ali from across the road, or at least a street-art version of him does. Inside the trendy warehouse space the graffiti art continues, alongside mismatched chairs and communal tables. Everyone is welcome here, though the offbeat artisans and designers of this quarter are the most usual suspects. Now that St Ali is open for dinner, chef Ben Cooper’s menu metamorphoses from Middle Eastern daytime to a night-time kaleidoscope of the South-East Asian cuisines of his distinguished cooking cadetship. The food is mostly very good – though, like the space, it’s somewhat experimental. The booze list is the bomb, with local ciders and beers sitting happily beside a wide range of sakes and a strong but tight wine list. This is the place to kick back and relax because, day or night, the service – though caring – can be a tad slow. Coffee, the beating heart of St Ali, is good any time – cold-filtered, single-origin and handcrafted.
Santiago
SPANISH
14 ARMSTRONG STREET, MIDDLE PARK
(03) 9696 8884 • MAP P.295
LICENSED & BYO TUES
OPEN TUES & WED 5PM–11PM, THURS & FRI 5PM–1AM, SAT & SUN 8AM–2PM, 5PM–LATE
TAPAS $3.50–$14, MAINS $20.50–$29.50, DESSERTS $8.50–$19
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Santiago feels real. It’s all there: the crisp, cold Spanish beer, the food-accompanied language classes, the twice weekly, authentically slow-cooked paella – this is Spanish with soul. The intimate space, tucked away nicely on Armstrong Street, is perfect for dates, and never feels exactly the same. Rustic timber lines Santiago, and the ornate wall-mounts are a kiss from Spain. Locals keep the place perpetually buzzing, but the mood is effervescent, rather than brash. Though you’ll find the menu regularly changing, Santiago’s staples are tasty and easy on the pocket – calamari, goat’s cheese and potato omelettes are dished out competently by the busy but engaging staff. It must be said: dessert steals the show here. Hell, it takes what was a brilliant night of hearty cuisine and renders it child’s play. This is sheer decadence. Hearts have been won and stolen with the freshly made churros and melted Spanish drinking chocolate. So leave room.
Sicilian Orange
ITALIAN
115 GREVILLE STREET, PRAHRAN
(03) 9510 1051 • MAP P.293
OPEN MON 7AM–5PM, TUES–FRI 7AM–10PM, SAT 8AM–10PM, SUN 8.30AM–5PM
LICENSED & BYO TUES, CORKAGE $10 A BOTTLE
ENTREES $8–$13, MAINS $15–$25, DESSERTS $5–$12
VISA, MC, EF TPOS
Intimacy is a tricky thing to perfect. And in the heart of Prahran? Well, it’s an art. Sicilian Orange (a nod to the region’s prominent production of citrus) is a small Italian dining hall that’s as cosy and personal as an Italian dining hall ought to be. This is a family affair – and the infinitesimal details like rustic table lamps and crisp white tablecloths make it all the more endearing. The antipasto is particularly fresh, with generous servings of cured meats and little nibbles. Couldn’t think of a better way to start a meal. The fresh, homemade gnocchi is utterly exquisite, perfectly textured and dished up with a deceptively simple array of basil, buffalo mozzarella and tomato. You may find these mains a little on the expensive side of Prahran, but the attentive service and impeccable freshness make it worth the punt. Allow for the decadence of the homemade cannoli – it’s likely to be the reason you return.
Spice Temple
CHINESE
CROWN CASINO, 8 WHITEMAN STREET, SOUTHBANK
(03) 8679 1888 • MAP P.282
LICENSED
OPEN MON–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–LATE, SAT & SUN 6PM–LATE
ENTREES $6–$34, MAINS $9–$160, DESSERTS $3.50–$18
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
Another of Neil Perry’s successful Sydney restaurants has been reincarnated southside in Spice Temple, which brings the same punchy, piquant and fragrant Chinese food from the Hunan, Sichuan, Yunnan, Jiangxi, Guangxi and Xinjiang provinces as its northern counterpart. This means strong contrasts of tastes and textures, dusty spices and an intensity of chillies in all forms while maintaining balance. The cocktail list has an Asian flare, with each one individually tailored to your Chinese zodiac. The menu is also balanced, with cold dishes and pickles designed to cleanse the palate between the spices and oil. Spicier dishes are highlighted and, though not as spicy as the traditional versions, they pack a lot of punch. Don’t go past the crisp lamb and cumin pancakes, or the hot, sweet and sour numbing pork studded with Sichuan peppercorns with heat, piquancy and a sweet kick to round off the flavours. The staff, as expected, are efficient and professional, and to see their flair, order the three-shot chicken, which is finished at the table with equal parts beer, chilli oil and soy sauce.
Squires Loft
GRILL
166 TOORAK ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9824 0999 • MAP P.292
LICENSED
OPEN MON–FRI NOON–3PM, 6PM–10PM, SAT & SUN 6PM–10PM
ENTREES $13–$28, MAINS $20–$55, DESSERTS $12–$21
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED LOCATIONS ALSO IN ALBERT PARK & DOCKLANDS
First impressions can be deceiving – what looks like a franchise steakhouse turns out to be so much more. The South Yarra venue, Squires’s flagship location, truly punches above its weight with well-cooked food and caring, fast, friendly service that puts some pricier restaurants to shame. So it’s with good reason that Squires Loft has expanded to other spots around Melbourne, as well as Queensland and Western Australia. The formula works – they turn out consistently good steaks, from 200-gram to half-kilo portions. It’s all Aussie beef on this menu and at the top of the range is CAAB – the Certified Australian Angus Beef – eye fillet or porterhouse. Fries are hot and crisp and crunchy, and the tempura-fried onions are a must-order side. Each of the seven sauces comes at a small extra cost. Though the dessert menu is predictable, what ends up on the table is so delicious it’s worth ordering – if there’s still room in your stomach, that is.
Steer Bar & Grill
GRILL
637 CHAPEL STREET, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9040 1188 • MAP P.292
LICENSED & BYO BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT, CORKAGE $20 A BOTTLE
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–10.30PM
ENTREES $15–$19, MAINS $28–$59.50, DESSERTS $15–$25
VISA, MC, AMEX
The first thing you notice about Steer is, well, the steer. He’s five-foot high and about eight long, and gazes through Steer’s glass walls onto Chapel Street like he’s hoping to run riot through the crowds of Toorak matrons. Steer is part of a new ‘art hotel’, the Olsen, whose clear-bottomed swimming pool hovers over the restaurant’s front door. Sadly, John Olsen’s dripping, organic art doesn’t make it into Steer; the interior decor is sharp-edged, in white, black and red, with twenty grand’s worth of every designer chair in the catalogue. Steer’s decor is in contrast to its food: steaks and hearty, highly spiced dishes, full of South American ingredients that need explaining by the attentive waitstaff. The full churrasco mixed grill is great – it’s hard not to like a meal where a chef brings out your steak for approval before it’s sliced. There’s also a delicious (if slightly bossy) cocktail menu – the passionfruit and basil caipirinha is great – unless you prefer a $4000 bottle of Chateau Lafite Rothschild …
Sweet Basil
THAI
209 COMMERCIAL ROAD, SOUTH YARRA
(03) 9827 3390 • MAP P.293
LICENSED & BYO, CORKAGE $3 A HEAD
OPEN TUES–THURS & SUN 6PM–10PM, FRI & SAT 6PM–10.30PM
ENTREES $9–$16, MAINS $16–$27, DESSERTS $9
VISA, MC, AMEX
Madame Tuk has presided over Sweet Basil for seventeen years now, and her original cooking utensils have made it into frames on the restaurant walls – along with a couple of pugs in chef’s hats, and tins of mackerel. Don’t let the quirky decor fool you, though; Madame Tuk is serious about food. This little Thai gem just off Chapel Street isn’t cheap, but the menu won’t disappoint. All the Thai favourites are here – pad thai and a really delicious sour tom yum soup. Then there’s calamari stuffed with prawns, moneybag dumplings, quail with peppercorns and garlic, duck in basil and fruit sauce and a whole rainbow trout in ginger, plum sugar and tamarind. Sweet Basil’s dining room, green-tinted by a large lightbox fixture, is full of pictures and cosy wooden fittings. Upstairs is a second dining room in yellow with a smiling buddha. Or, for really intimate dining, have them deliver the food to you.
Tempura Hajime
JAPANESE
60 PARK STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE
(03) 9696 0051 • MAP P.295
LICENSED
OPEN MON–SAT 6PM–11PM
BANQUETS $72
ALL CARDS ACCEPTED
It’s all a little secretive and exclusive if you manage to get a booking at this twelve-seater restaurant. Those in the know book on the first of the month – Hajime only takes bookings for the month ahead. You’re asked if anyone in your party has an allergy, which is catered for in advance, and the day before your dinner, you receive an SMS leading you to the elusive front door. Most of the dishes are perfectly battered and deep-fried in front of you, but there’s also an impossibly fresh sashimi selection, a few salads, a donburi dish and dessert at the end. Don’t bother asking for a second serving of a course if you think it’s particularly amazing – Chef Shigeo only purchases enough for the evening. Eating at Tempura Hajime allows you to appreciate the simple perfection of single items as they are served – a perfect, fresh plum and crunchy prawn, a spear of green asparagus that still maintains its crunch, and an amazing scallop stuffed with raw sea urchin. Tempura Hajime is worth waiting for.
Tutto Bene
ITALIAN
MID LEVEL, SOUTHGATE, 3 SOUTHGATE AVENUE, SOUTHBANK
(03) 9696 3334 • MAP P.283
LICENSED
OPEN DAILY NOON–3PM, 6PM–10PM
ENTREES $4–$19, MAINS $25–$55.50, DESSERTS $5–$17.50
VISA, MC
Chef Simon Humble cut his chops at Melbourne’s finest Italian restaurants and has been hailed by no less than Antonio Carluccio as ‘risotto king of Australia’. A resounding start for an Italian ristorante, no doubt, but when you add to this a prime riverside location on Southbank, you’ve got it in the bag. Tutto Bene rolls out the Italian osteria theme to a tee. From the wooden tables and chairs to the crooning Italian pop playlist and nostalgic display of vintage wine bottles, this could be a Tuscan local. Even packed out for dinner with families, couples and tourists, the service is attentive and balcony views faultless. Good Italian food is not hard to come by in Melbourne so it’s the little touches that stand out. Tutto Bene’s house olive oil, its pioneering Australian organic wine list, and homemade gelati (worth a visit for this alone) are its hallmarks. And of course there’s the risotto: luscious, creamy and funghilicious. Tutto Bene is worth a visit for locals and visitors alike, and is family-friendly.