Restaurant Review: Plus 5

Location: 37 South Wharf Road, South Wharf
Phone: 03 9682 0091
Link: http://plus5bar.com.au/
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean, Wine Bar
Overall Impression: 7.5/10

Located within the refurbished 19th century heritage listed dock and wool store on the Yarra waterfront, Plus 5 Bar is newest addition to Melbourne's thriving bar scene.

We were warmly greeted by our hosts Erin and the restaurant’s bar manager, Alessandro. Alessandro has a thorough background in bars and hospitality - He was previously Bangpop's Bar Manager, Movida’s Assistant Restaurant Manager and MGM Grand Monaco’s Operations Manager.

The interior is predominately steel and timber with a feature tile wall. The bar is an airy, scenic space set in one of Melbourne's oldest boat sheds; the ideal location for sipping distinctive cocktails as the warmer weather sets in.

The cocktail list is brilliant, having been devised by Alessandro and his team and features both classics and a host of Alessandro’s signature cocktails.

Left: Banzai Mule - Eristoff vodka, fresh pineapple juice, lime & ginger beer
Right: White Gin Fizz - Beefeater gin, fresh lemon juice,lemon sorbet topped with soda water

The cocktails were original, cleverly named and presented well but most importantly they were very tasty.

Top Left: Pumpkin, Rosemary, Roasted Garlic, Crudo, Feta

Top Right: Swiss Brown Mushrooms, Parmesan, Breadcrumbs

Bottom Left: Lamb Meat Balls, Pine Nut, Sultana w. Minted Yoghurt

Bottom Right: Skewered Tiger Prawns Brushed w. Parsley & Garlic

The food respects seasonality and is rooted in simplicity. The menu complements the cocktails perfectly, featuring a mix of charcuterie, tapas through to a tight pizza list.

Shredded Confit Duck Goats Chesse, Pomegranate & Citrus Salad

A stand out dish from our visit was the duck salad. This seemingly simple salad was not only complex with layers of flavour, it was also perfectly balanced. The duck was moreish and tender, and it matched beautifully with the subtle flavour of the goats cheese. The fruity acidity and texture of the orange segments provided balance. It was a very enjoyable dish.

Plus 5 is a haven set right on the banks of the Yarra river. Perfect for a summer cocktail and tapas with friends.

 

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of Plus 5.