Bar Bellamy

Overview

What's better, sticking to one thematic lane or diversifying beyond what could be considered "the norm?". Bar Bellamy, found on Carlton's Rathdowne Street is a believer in the latter, with a European-inspired bistro menu that constantly rotates with the seasons to maintain peak freshness. But you'd be forgiven for thinking it was a cocktail bar when you first glance at the drinks menu.

Helmed by a husband and wife duo with time spent at the likes of The Everleigh, Gimlet and Archie's All Day, Bar Bellamy wants to welcome you in as a close friend. Bel ami, French for good friend, oui? And, like in any kitchen of a good friend, you'll be the recipient of a bloody good feed.

The ever-in-flux menu has included oysters and hot sauce, a famously scrumptious spin on devilled eggs, Toulouse sausage on a bed of lentils, marinated sardines with lemon and bay leaf, and more. Specials and set menus are frequent too, with weekend lunch services exclusively offering a monthly set menu inspired by a rotating region of France.

For drinks, the legendary specialty here is the martini, with many Melburnians calling it home to their favourite shaken and stirred sips. Past highlights include the Gibson Martini (Triple Juniper Gin, Dolin Blanc Vermouth, La Goya Manzanilla Sherry, tomato water, kalamata hydrosol and pink onion) and the Brooklynite (Jamaican rum, Créme de Mûre, salted blackberry honey, cinnamon myrtle distillate and lime). Should martinis not take your fancy, classic cocktails like negronis, highballs, cosmos and the like are always an option.