LOCATIONSlap-bang in the thick of Fitzroy’s restaurant strip.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAThis little Johnston Street bar and eatery is high on style, with its monochromatic fit-out of whitewashed walls and long communal tables, but also high on value. The menu is limited with about three choices for each course, and you buy two, three or four courses at the bar for $15, 20 or 25. The dishes are simple but of excellent quality – much akin to dining in the home of a talented but budget-conscious amateur gourmet. Servings are small, but go for the four courses and you’ll walk out satisfied and not too much lighter in the pocket.
Starters may be something as simple as olives, white anchovies or jamon, while entrees might include gorgonzola, caramelised onion and thyme tart, a skewer of spiced prawns or a Jerusalem artichoke and truffle oil soup. The main event shifts up a gear with Greek beef stifado or Indian-style fish curry, while desserts usually include an excellent tart and a choice of cheeses. The portions may be petite, but you could be served the same thing in a top-notch restaurant and would be happy to pay twice the price. Share a few plates among a small group and it will make for a very respectable repast. The wine list is a bit pricey, but there are some reasonable wines available by the glass.
Angela Costanzo