LOCATIONThe corner of Tribune and Little Stanley Street in South Bank.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIALike other regional cuisines, sometimes French cooking gets mired down by stereotype, for example it’s not uncommon to equate Lebanese with kebabs, Japanese with sushi and Italian with pizza, ignoring the fact that these labels are not exact snapshots of a certain culture. Fifth Element Bar and Cellar presents the discerning diner with an interior, menu and drinks list that is both challenging and inventive while comfortably sitting within the French category.
A bright, airy, glass dining room compartmentalised by wood paneling and grounded by touches of onyx, Fifth Element transforms from a well-lit space perfect for a light lunch or catch-up coffee during the day, to a dramatic lounge bar at night. The menu is also designed with versatility in mind, featuring tapas and sharing plates starring a house pate accompanied by Grand Marnier jelly, and Muscovy duck done two ways. The drinks list is vast yet cleverly crafted, featuring innovative cocktails and a wine menu that takes full advantage of the adjoining cellar. Every major Australian varietal is well represented, however, diners also get a chance to sample exotic drops from far-flung Argentina, Chile, Portugal and, of course, France. Urbane, knowledgeable and sassy, Fifth Element is kicking a few gourmet and style goals.
Nicholas Wong, May 2009