Precinct Hotel

Profiled by De Groots Media
There’s probably been a pub on this corner of Swan Street since Melbourne was old enough to drink. But this large old place has been taught some new tricks. It has been freshened up and now has a commanding bar area that fills up over the weekends when the live music is jiving. There are various nooks and crannies to dine in such as the casual bar area, ideal for a laid back bite, and an attractive outdoor courtyard for when the nights are balmier. A dining room with carpeted floors, fireplaces, tables with crisp linen napkins and a wonderful leaf-encrusted mirror makes for a more sophisticated, yet comfortable dining atmosphere.

The food is an unusual mixture of Italian and Vietnamese flavours with some Middle Eastern influences. You could be forgiven for thinking that there is one chef trying to be contemporary, but really there are two chefs cooking what they know best. Meet Sam Phung who is Vietnamese-born but raised in Israel, and Pat Ortuso who is Italian but grew up in Adelaide. With these two characters sharing the kitchen, the results are heavenly if not unique. Try the spring rolls which are terrific little tasters, as are the arancini rice balls served with a rich tomato puree. The roast duck with Asian greens is succulent and flavourful, and the lamb tajine on couscous is rich, aromatic and filling. Of course you could chose from some of the more usual pub grub if you are after an unfussed meal but whatever suits your fancy the Precinct is well worth a visit or three.

Rita Erlich