VICTORIA
Maha Bar
Opened February 2020 Who Shane Delia Vibe Handsome and romantic modern Middle Eastern bar.
Verdict
Is Shane Delia’s gorgeous, glamorous Collingwood bar his best work yet? The harissa and turmeric braised beef-stuffed borek bun, arak pickled cucumbers and brilliant hummus served with maple-roasted carrots would say yes. Service is great too, as is the on-theme wine list with its Lebanese wine producers and selection of raki and arak. 86 Smith St, Collingwood, (03) 9417 3531, mahabar.com.au
Gimlet at Cavendish House
Opened June 2020 Who Andrew McConnell Vibe New York-style French bar and bistro given a McConnell makeover.
Verdict
The 10 minutes it was allowed to open in June gave a tantalising glimpse of chic Gimlet’s potential – a big, beautiful Manhattan-referencing room with a central bar, leather booths and a menu that mixes marron with saffron rice, wood-fired flatbread with clams and chilli, house-made gelati and great cocktails – Gimlets, of course, alongside Leanne Altman’s superb wine list. 33 Russell St, Melbourne, (03) 9277 9777, gimlet.Melbourne
Lagoon Dining
Opened November 2019 Who Chris Lerch, Keat Lee and Ned Trumble (co-owners) Vibe Smart, tasty Melb-Asian in the heart of Little Italy.
Verdict
This story is from the November 2020 edition of Gourmet Traveller.
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This story is from the November 2020 edition of Gourmet Traveller.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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