LOCATIONA suburban haven in the back streets of Carlton North.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAYou know the sort of friendly pub you would love to have around the corner, well the inhabitants of Carlton North are lucky enough to have it in the Brandon. A relaxed front bar is where the locals head for a quiet pint, but many follow through to the dining room where the menu extends far beyond your average pub fare. It’s an informal, comfortable dining space that offers a varied menu. You can still get a parma or fish and chips, but it would be a shame not to sample the honey and ginger glazed duck breast with pineapple, chilli and mint salsa served with steamed bok choy.
An antipasto plate to share makes a great start, as does a duo of smoked fish with citrus and beetroot salad. Mains include chicken thigh stuffed with herb and pistachio, wrapped in pancetta and served with moghrabieh and blue cheese creme fraiche, linguine marinara or saltimbocca with cafe au lait sauce. The restaurant menu is available in the bar, and there are also weekly bar specials that make eating here excellent value. Rock up on a Wednesday night to take advantage of the $15 meals of the day to accompany a good range of tap beers and a small, sophisticated selection of wines.
Angela Costanzo, December 2008