Mid Summer Nights Dream

Driving through lanes until you think you’re lost, and you’re there. It is perfect for summer. You walk in, to be greeted by a wine cellar. At the bar, you get to taste a generous selection of wine before you take your pick. We were a party of 10, there for my birthday of all things. Outside is a lovely courtyard, with subtle lighting and flowers. We enjoyed the courtyard while sipping on wine. To top it off, we were given complimentary champagne to start the night. We were then seated at our table, inside with the windows open, enjoying a cool  breeze in the brisk summer air. 

Dinner was ordered. The selection was limited and the menu was difficult to read. With the 10 of us we ordered almost everything on the menu. And dare I might say when the food arrived each dish just melted in your mouth. The next half hour we spent in a series of ohhs and ahhs. The zucchini flower with 3 cheeses, the glaze chick and even the pizza. If you’re looking for a litte haven for for food; this is it. The ambiance, the food and the service was served to impress. Although slightly expensive for a wine bar, it is a venue not to be missed.

For People who Love Food:

The Argo
64 Argo St, South Yarra 3141

In the Heart of Spain

Dinner tonight started out on a journey to a fine Spanish restaurant on Hosiery Lane. We started off early too, with the hopes of a fine dining experience under soft lights. I wasn’t too hungry and I was willing to wait. Movida, I thought. As we arrived at the restaurant, I realized that the wait was about two hours. So as suggested we went next door, Movida Next Door, that is.

The entrance presents itself with intriguing graffiti art. The busy décor sets backdrop to a single glass door that leads to a tapas bar with at least 11 specials. The restaurant itself was warm. Lamps hung from stoned walls. We were greeted immediately and the customer service was spectacular. It was a busy night this Saturday and it was explained that the wait was going to be 30 minutes. But hey, I waited. Quite shortly, we were seated with a drink in hand and ready to order. The food arrived.

A spectacular array of delicious Spanish food. The tortilla came first and it melted in my mouth. This was followed by clams and prawns. The tapas size was small but each bite was worth every minute of the wait. The prawns were tangy and mouthwatering. And the Mahi-Mahi was utter perfection. The fish oozed of flavors that I would dare say could only be found on the streets of Spain. I was sold. As wine free flowed, laughter was shared and desert was served. Delicious chocolate with croûtons: Icing on an ever so delicious cake.

Recommended by Elizabeth Gilbert from the novel Eat, Pray, Love.

For people who love food:

Movida Next Door

1 Hosier Lane, Melbourne, 3000

http://www.movida.com.au/index.html