By Allira Carroll
I recently rediscovered Melbourne’s food scene after way too long between trips. It was an indulgent 72 hours – a mission to squeeze in as many incredible dining experiences as my skinny jeans would allow. Here’s my picks…
Embla is a sexy, relaxed little wine bar in the middle of town. I sat at a stool overlooking the kitchen and was mesmerised by the smoky wood-fired oven that fuels the menu. The wine list is very cool, much cooler than I, so my recommendation is to ask for a recommendation from the lovely staff. Awesome spot for lunch and you can book. However, if you’re coming at night be prepared to squish or be turned away as it gets busy and they don’t take bookings.
Must try: the stretchy twisted sheets of stracciatella cheese with anchovy, basil and zucchini; pine mushrooms are ONE OF THE BEST THINGS I’VE EVER EATEN. I’m still salivating at the thought of them.
Etta is out of the CBD in Brunswick East and clearly a favourite of locals, including a few Melbourne TV stars who were spotted being very low key. The vibe is buzzy and relaxed, the staff are warm and attentive. There’s a fantastic feed me chef’s menu for $60 that’s terrific value.
Must try: tamari roasted buttercup, sunflower and dill; mozzarella pasta, zucchini and black olive; Flinders Island lamb, goat’s cheese and fig.
Marion was the location for a lazy Sunday afternoon menu grazing. I want Marion to be my local: it’s charming, cosy, and the wall of wine makes me envious. Diners were a mixed bag of people popping in between boutique shopping for a wine and prawn roll through to groups celebrating a birthday lunch. Again, just ask for a wine recommendation as the staff know their stuff and likely to get you drinking something better than you would have chosen.
Must try: 250g rump cap with fries; haloumi; persimmon and prosciutto; prawn roll; cheese board.
Supernormal is surely one of the most talked about restaurants in Melbourne and it’s absolutely worthy. I was dining alone up at the bar but, as was the case with Embla, the staff are so welcoming and the vibe so great it’s perfectly acceptable to dine solo. It’s quite a big, bright space but doesn’t have any issues filling up for lunch and dinner. This is Asian-inspired food done bloody well. Perfectly ok to pop in for a quick lobster roll and glass of wine or stay for a long afternoon lunching. Just make sure you leave room for dessert.
Must try: cobia with pickled fennel, yuzu and chilli; New England lobster roll; peanut butter parfait, salted caramel and soft chocolate dessert.
Attica is an experience unlike any other in Australia. Recently voted #15 in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants I have to admit I was a little sceptical going in. However, the attention to detail, unwavering passion for local and native produce, and an obvious love for food and hospitality by the staff makes it obvious why Attica is where it is. There’s a staggering 22 courses so be prepared to settle in. The little detour to the chef’s garden and native tea is a nice touch.
Must try: you get all 22 courses but highlights were Gazza’s vegemite pie; jumbuck and tulips; and whipped emu egg with sugar bag.
Lune Croissanterie has a cult following and it’s easy to see why. This is THE place for croissants. They have to be the most perfectly made croissants around and you can see why as the bakers make them in the huge glass box in the middle of this converted warehouse. That’s once you get inside – be prepared to queue and get here before 9am if you want more choice than just plain croissants. Don’t worry, they take coffee orders while queuing so you’ll at least have your coffee fix.
Must try: plain croissant; almond croissant, ham and gruyere croissant; Aperol cruffin.
South Melbourne Markets is an incredible spot to while away a morning in Melbourne. There’s a bunch of coffee, food, apparel and grocery traders but for the ULTIMATE bacon and egg roll you must visit Proper & Son in the food court area.
Do you have any other Melbourne foodie tips you’d like to share? Email us at hello@tonicpr.com.au.