Bar Bambi

Overview

This plush venture from Nick and Daniel Russian (founders of Eve Bar) has taken over the revered rock 'n roll site that once housed Cherry Bar.

You can push aside all thoughts of the four-legged Disney character — the venue's in fact named after and inspired by a bar the duo's Nonno owned in Trieste, Italy, 80 years ago. Here on AC/DC Lane, they're paying homage to their heritage while delivering Melbourne a dazzling late-night party joint.

It's a sumptuous lounge bar filled with glam vintage touches, nodding to the drinking dens of LA and Europe. Curved banquettes and staircases, and a healthy appreciation for the colour pink are the work of awarded designer David Hicks.

Italian share plates rule the menu, with familiar favourites alongside some contemporary surprises — including a loaded carbonara toastie ($19) and a tiramisu cannoli ($12). Elsewhere, you'll find rigatoni done with wagyu bolognese ($29), a spicy vodka pasta ($32) and pork cotoletta on the bone ($38). A solid antipasti offering is primed for snacking, as is the dedicated bar menu, featuring the likes of lobster pizza ($65), wagyu bresaola ($24) and ice cream sandwiches ($18).

A well-matched drinks offering favours spritzes and negronis, with options galore and large-format serves available for each. If you're game, try yours by the one-litre carafe or arrange your own negroni fountain ($2200). They're backed by a slew of other classic Euro cocktails, a spread of Italian and Aussie wines, and an after-dinner bottle service.

Expect a diverse program of extra fun running into the wee hours, from DJs, to piano singers, to live performances gracing the front stage.

Mark Roper

Images: Mark Roper