The Charsfield

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA

Originally the residence of a wealthy Melbourne tailor, this National Trust listed building now serves as boutique hotel, The Charsfield. The striking Victorian architecture and prime St Kilda Road location only add to its natural charm, with its signature restaurant retaining its former grandeur. Heavy, plush curtains adorn the windows, crisp white linens dress the tables, and professional yet friendly service prevails.

Head Chef Paul Le Noury creates a contemporary Australian fusion menu which changes daily, utilising the best seasonally available produce for his flavour driven dishes. Start with an entree of Moroccan chicken salad with chickpeas, cous cous and sumec yoghurt; or the carpaccio of beef with rocquette, goat’s cheese and reduced balsamic. Follow with a main of Atlantic smoked salmon poached with potatoes, greens and lemon mayonnaise; or perhaps the saddle of lamb with eggplant, potato cheese tart and rosemary jus. Vegetarians are also well catered for with their own menu selections that might include a baked miniature pumpkin with Moroccan vegetable curry and cous cous. Finish with the chocolate cognac tart with anglaise and coffee beans, or the fresh berries with lavender, honey and marscarpone ice-cream. The wine list offers plenty of choice and is well suited to this dining experience.

Veda Wickens