LOCATIONDeparts from Normanby Road, near the corner of Clarendon Street and opposite Crown Casino.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAMelburnians may be well accustomed to getting around town on the city’s trams, but The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant offers quite a different experience. These three classic 1927 trams have been converted into restaurants on wheels – complete with ever-changing scenery, silver service and stabilisers to ensure your lunch doesn’t end up on your lap. Retro-fitted in classic Pullman style and with a set menu designed to showcase Victoria’s great food and wine, this restaurant offers a unique experience.
Primarily popular with visitors, it’s a great way to showcase the city sights. The softly lit lamps and white linen set against the sparkling lights of the city also make for a romantic dinner setting.
Enjoy appetisers, then an entree of grilled kangaroo loin with lemon myrtle and bush tomato chilli jam or smoked salmon with avocado mousse as you trundle along St Kilda’s Esplanade. Mains offer a choice of chicken breast with Mediterranean vegetable risotto or prime beef eye fillet and – considering the limitations of preparing meals aboard a moving tourist attraction – are visually appealing and quite delicious. The set price on the two and three hour trips includes a three, four or five course meal and all beverages. Vegetarian options are available but must be specified 24 hours in advance. Waitstaff double as tour guides and have also been known to give the odd impromptu operatic performance. It all makes for a fun and unique way to dine while enjoying the sights of the city.
Angela Costanzo, May 2009