LOCATION
Melbourne CBD.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Campari Bistro was once a well known dining spot, but the restaurant and the building that housed it have been given a new lease on life. Completely renovated over four distinct levels, Campari House now offers not only the large ground floor restaurant but two bar/function areas and a stunning rooftop bar. The downstairs restaurant retains its period charm and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering an innovative modern Italian menu courtesy of chef Simon Turner. Start with twice-cooked calamari with wood-smoked tomatoes and spicy house made chipolatas or a raviolo of chestnut and Jerusalem artichoke with confit duck and sage butter sauce. Mains include Bobby veal osso buco with forest mushrooms, cinnamon, lemon and tomato and Tuscan jerked rib eye with warm cavolo nero and chipolata salad.
Desserts are a twist on Italian favourites and might see you sampling a blood orange polenta cake with confit oranges and Campari gelato or balsamic figs, limoncello and nutmeg meringue and biscotti crumbs. For late-night revellers, pizza and share plates such as Sicilian prawn “popcorn” or porcini, thyme and goat’s cheese arancini are available in the intimate surrounds of the Lounge (complete with chocolate leather Chesterfields and private booths) as well as the Rooftop Bar, until close. Campari House also offers an espresso lunch for workers short on time, with a choice of five dishes and a coffee, which you can have either with your meal or take-away.
Angela Costanzo, October 2009
DETAILS
Campari House is a city venue like no other. The once famous Campari Bistro has been brilliantly rejuvenated creating a fantastic four level hospitality experience reflecting Melbourne’s diverse restaurant and bar culture. Seamlessly merging refined and rustic, vintage and contemporary, Campari House has the feel of an instant classic. Stylish without being sleek, the venue is warm and inviting, comfortable yet lively.
Ideally located on iconic Hardware Lane, the ground floor 80 seater Restaurant offers a fresh and innovative modern Italian menu open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Level 1 versatile, light filled space is perfect for your next corporate or private event. Enjoy a Cocktail or 2 and some share plates in the Level 2 Lounge. Finally wander up to the greatly anticipated roof top for some of Melbourne’s best pizza.
Our seasonal menu stems from Italian tradition, showcasing fresh, natural, local ingredients reflecting rustic sensibility with contemporary flair. Experienced Head Chef Simon Turner ‘s passion for what he does shines through in each dish. All pasta, breads, flavoured salts and infused oils are made in house. Campari House celebrates tradition with a modern twist.
Fittings and furnishings from the original building established in 1968 have been carefully salvaged, renewed and reused throughout. Original timber has been restored to make new bars, antique light fittings remain and quaint historical trinkets add to the appeal of this unique site. Campari House is where old becomes new.
Many contemporary elements also contribute to the vibe of this venture, namely the extraordinary artwork that covers the entire stairwell. This striking hand painted feature is sure to slow down your journey to the roof top as you digest the masterpiece.
Whether you are looking for quick morning muffin and coffee, unforgettable dining experience or a quiet drink on the roof top under Melbourne’s striking star lit sky, Campari House is sure to impress.