Next Door Bistro - CLOSED

Overview

Next Door does everything right — from its tasteful interior design to its delicious food and friendly service. When we popped in on a quiet Thursday it was no surprise to see every table taken by Parnell locals in the know.

This refined bistro is served in a charming brick building, next door to the owners' other eatery, Foundation on George. There are several spaces to choose from when dining here, including an intimate bar, an openair courtyard and two separate dining rooms. The largest, features raw brick, polished wooden floors and tasteful artworks on white walls. It's fancy, but not too fancy.

The menu is particularly impressive, flaunting creativity and subtle refinement. Our favourite on the list is the banh mi, an elegant dish that takes the classic Vietnamese sandwich, deconstructs it and dials up the delicious. Melt in your mouth iberico pork belly is artfully arranged on the plate, along with pickled vegetables, creamy pate and a touch of coriander. Other standouts include the roasted asparagus and ceviche, which is a rather unique creation, featuring wakame seaweed, nam jim and a whole lot of flavour. To wash it all down, you've got your choice of dozens of delicious wines, a selection of premium spirits and rotating Garage Project 650ml bottles.

Despite only being open for weeks, the staff know the menu well. They're all clearly comfortable and food arrives quickly with a bit of friendly banter. One waiter even joked that we may or may not get what we ordered since they just opened (we did). When you're next in the area, make sure you pop in at Next Door and check the place out. Whether you're here for lunch, dinner, or drinks, you're in for an absolute treat.