The Florence

Overview

The Florence has landed on Flinders Lane, bringing a retro-inspired fit, a dedicated Negroni menu, and late-night, good times to the CBD. The design-forward cocktail bar is set to become a hot new spot, whether it's for a quick after-work drink or a place to cosy up during long and cold winter evenings. 

The Italian-inspired, aesthetically pleasing bar is from Valarc Group, the team behind some of Melbourne's stellar restaurants, including Tartine Bistro, Middle Park European and Meatball & Wine Bar (which The Florence sits above). With their latest venture, they turn their focus to classic cocktails, with a particular interest in Negronis. In fact, the bar is even named for the birthplace of the beloved, bitter beverage. 

The cocktail list features five variations of the Negroni, along with Tuscan wines and creative house signature drinks. The Piazza Rosa is a floral blend of Campari, hibiscus, gin and raspberries, whereas the Tuscan Manhattan, with rye, vermouth, Pedro Ximénez and balsamic, may suit a more adult palate. Make a pitstop after work for The Florence's handy happy hour, where you can snag $8 beers, $10 wines, $14 spritzes and $10 mini Florence Negronis. 

A tight menu of snacks and small plates is conveniently available until 1am, encouraging you to stick around for a few more rounds. There's cured meats and oysters, fried olives and crudo, crab blinis and straciatella with pane fritto. You can make a meal out of it with gnocchi with gorgonzola, braised beef croquettes, or a vitello and caperberry sandwich. 

Matteo Bruno, Valarc Group founder, says, "Flinders Lane has always been the heart of Melbourne's dining culture. I lived on Flinders Lane for ten years, and opening something above my first restaurant, The Meatball & Wine Bar, feels incredibly special. It's somewhere people can drop in for a drink, share a few plates and enjoy great wine together."

Images: Supplied. 

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