Blue Tongue Wine Bar

LOCATION
On the central strip of the beachside suburb of Elwood, slightly south of St Kilda.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
With a simple yet impressive menu, a diverse and thoughtfully compiled wine list, and understated yet stylish decor, Blue Tongue is more than just a simple cafe or vino bar. This place was the first of its kind when opening its doors 11 years ago, and while similar concepts have emerged as competition within a stone’s throw, Blue Tongue continues to please the masses through sheer hard work and a diversity that offers many different things to many different people.

The front bar is modestly furnished with a few essentials, like sleek bar and stools and a few simple four-top tables, providing a relaxed, smooth atmosphere where good wine and beer can be enjoyed without pretension. Waltz through the lovely, tall wooden doors at the back of the front bar to find a delightful covered courtyard that sits 12 to15 people – perfectly cool on a hot day when a white wine or refreshing ale goes down a treat. Blue Tongue’s menu is a collection of classic dishes, some have a creative twist but all draw on simple, fresh, high quality ingredients. The crispy, tender, lightly battered calamari is a highlight.

Frank Trimboli