The Silverlake Social

Overview

At this stage, the American bar concept has had plenty of airplay here in Melbourne — but don't go thinking you've seen it all — for Prahran's Silverlake Social is doing things a little differently.

Neon-drenched, tinny-slinging dive bar this is not. Nor is it sporting a Southern-style saloon fitout, cowhides or a Texas twang. Instead, 2 Sons Group owner, Nicholas Welch has created a crisp and contemporary destination for standout American booze.

The Chapel Street space bears little reminder of its past as a Chinese restaurant, with timber curves and banquette seating more reminiscent of an upbeat American diner. Perched above the jam-packed back bar, a big screen is tuned into the latest USA sports action, with customer requests for current games encouraged. For patrons wanting to interact with the States-themed space, arcade games decorate the back side of the bar and a pool table takes pride of place right by the front door. Or further immerse yourself by testing your quiz prowess at the weekly Trivia Tuesdays competition.

The food menu leans to the South and is packed full of comforting flavours, from the beer snacks, burgers and burritos, to the BBQ-style sides. A classic cheeseburger comes loaded with juicy beef, double American cheese, pickles, and a drizzle of special sauce, while tangy Buffalo wings are the ideal accompaniment to a hoppy Stones IPA and some big-screen NBA action. Even the vegetarians are spoilt for choice with the Ventura burrito, packed with chargrilled chipotle marinated zucchini and Mexican rice, pico de gallo, and fresh guacamole.

Not only did Welche hone his venue ownership skills at Greville Street's White Oaks Saloon, but has also introduced Melbourne to some very cool US booze through his importing business High Spirits Beverages. And it's that game that wins them some serious brownie points here at Silverlake. The tap rotation — which is thanks to co-owner and beer afficionado Byron Barrowclough — runs to a crafty assortment of USA-made brews, showcasing top drops from Sierra Nevada and Brooklyn Lager, alongside less ubiquitous beers from the likes of Deschutes, and loads more interesting gems in the fridge.

This is all accompanied by classic cocktails and shooters like the much-loved pickleback, Jack Daniel's apple whiskey, Sheep Dog peanut butter whiskey and 1800 coconut tequila.

Images: Griffin Simm.