Wowee Zowee

Overview

Why should inner-city folk have all the fun? The beachside destination of Mornington has just scored a rollicking new watering hole, that's both a little bit divey and a whole lot rock 'n' roll. Named after an album by legendary US indie-rockers Pavement, Wowee Zowee has landed on Main Street, led by a team of hospitality veterans and Mornington Peninsula locals in the know. At the helm, you'll find Something For Kate drummer and owner of Windsor's Yellow Bird Clint Hyndman, along with Paringa Estate Head Chef Simon Tarlington, Cam Marshall (Garagiste Wines, Balcombe Gin) and Craig Baum (Bar Barons).

As the name suggests, there's a focus here on good times and great tunes, so expect a carefully put together soundtrack pumping from the speakers.

To match, the bar's pouring a diverse and approachable lineup of drops, with imported brews like Kona's Big Wave and Pabst, alongside homegrown heroes including Young Henrys and Melbourne Bitter. There's also a crop of interesting wines, a dedicated tinnie fridge and a rotation of light cocktails — currently including the likes of the Regal Begal, blending Campari and pink grapefruit ($19).

Chef Tarlington's chicken-heavy food menu heroes local Peninsula produce, while embracing both Southern American flavours and modern Aussie flair. Head in for dishes like the Dirty Bird, starring fried chicken, honey soy butter and a crumpet ($13); buffalo wings tossed in Frank's Hot Sauce and teamed with a blue cheese ranch ($14); the Wowee Dog ($12); and popcorn cauliflower ($12) with cauliflower ranch.

The daily happy hour (4–6pm) is also packed with gems, from $8 pints and $5 wines to $2 chicken drumsticks.