LOCATIONVivace is located at Brighton a beachside suburb of Melbourne, and is a pleasant 10-15 minutes drive from the CBD. The setting in the middle of Bay St is accessible to local shops, the Palace movie theatre and North Brighton Train station.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAVivace, with its dark timber floors and pale, smoky green walls, is an attractive place from the minute you walk in. There’s a cosy little corner to sit in with a couple of friends for a quick coffee or a glass of something more substantial. Bay Street is a bit quieter than the frenzied Church Street, which means it’s easier to find a parking space should you need one. Vivace has the warmth and comfort of a local place – though admittedly, Brighton’s locals are pretty smart – and still has enough pizazz to make it a worthwhile night out.
The menu is largely Italian, and changes more or less seasonally with daily specials as added temptations. Think entrees like zucchini flowers filled with goat’s cheese, served with a roasted artichoke and truffle oil salad. Think orrecchiette pasta with broccolini, almonds, garlic, onion and chilli. Think cacciucco, a big Livornese fish stew, or even porterhouse with roasted parsnip puree, spinach, tomatoes, and red wine and thyme jus. There are good beer and cocktail lists, and an appealing wine selection with a nifty Italian section and some by the glass. The lunch special ($20 for one course with a glass of wine and coffee, or $30 for two) is great value. And in case you still need convincing, it has the following extras: opens early for dinner, it’s very handy for the Palace cinema, and there are three private function rooms upstairs.
Rita Erlich, January 2008
DETAILSThe restaurant is open for lunch Wed – Sun offering a popular 2 course light lunch. It is perfect for a quick business meeting or to linger over with friends. Dinner is served 7 days with bookings always recommended. The bar area is perfect for after work drinks or pre / post movie theatre
FOOD & BEVERAGEVivace offers an Italian inspired menu with a selection of entrees, pastas and main courses that are complemented by daily specials. Dietary requirements are catered for throughout the menu and on request where necessary.
PRIVATE DININGThree private dining rooms upstairs cater for groups of 8 – 40 in fully carpeted rooms, offering space for corporate groups, small private parties and presentations or meetings. The restaurant can be booked for larger private groups, offering a contemporary feel for intimate weddings and larger corporate functions. These functions are complemented by restaurant quality food and service, leaving you and your guests with only great memories.