Now Open: Kirbie Is Giving Effortlessly Cool European Wine Bar Energy in South Melbourne
Melbourne scores another European-inspired cafe, bistro and wine bar in Kirbie
We're seeing a surge in Euro-inspired drinking and dining spots across Melbourne right now, as well as an increase in all-day diners, which transition from cafe to wine bar and restaurant as the day progresses.
The growth of all-day diners is great to see, as these spots change things up throughout the day to increase opportunities to make profits — delivering a range of different menus and vibes.
South Melbounre's Kirbie is the latest joint to do just this, championing low-fuss, high-quality comfort food from 11am until late every day of the week except Sundays.
Drop by for snacks and starters like pan con tomate with anchovies and manchego cheese, crudités with whole-braised beets and labneh, meatballs in a rich sugo and mussels with fennel and Pernod liquor. You can order these as classic starters before mains or only get a bunch of small bits when having a sip-and-snack session.
Larger bites then include beef tortellini in broth and braised lamb rigatoni as well as chicken cotoletta and NY strip steak with Kirbie butter and parsley sauce — each of which can be paired with sides.
You can finish on a sweet note with a Greek galaktoboureko (filo pastry filled with custard and topped with honey), chocolate tart du jour or lemon sorbet with extra virgin olive oil. As this is a Euro-inspired spot, there is, of course, an obligatory cheese board as well.
"For the menu, I've turned to all the incredible authentic home cooks who've inspired me over the years. Kirbie is about well-executed dishes that aren't overworked or over-plated, and let the flavours speak for themselves. Our specials will offer everything you look for on a menu but can't find anymore - all the things I love to eat," shares Owner Kirbie Tate.
Drinks include classic cocktails — focusing on top-shelf spirits — and a selection of local and international wines. As with the food, everything is kept simple, focusing on good produce that doesn't need theatrics nor unnecessary flourishes.
This is all served up within the intimate 40-seater space on Clarendon Street, which has a smattering of outdoor dining spots — on the street, in the small courtyard and along the connecting laneway. You'll be encouraged to stand and snack in the laneway and sit on the steps out in the courtyard — leaning into those casual neighbourhood vibes.
Even though we are getting a little bored with all the new European-inspired wine bars, cafes and restaurants popping up around Melbourne (we'd love to see a more diverse range of cuisines and dining concepts join the fold), this does seem like a legitimate neighbourhood gem that is sure to be a hit with locals.
You'll find Kirbie at 323 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne, open 11am–late from Monday–Saturday. For more information, you can visit the venue's website.
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