Overview
The historic Normanby Chambers site at 430 Collins Street has notched up some serious culinary street cred over the years, first home to Shannon Bennett's Bistro Vue and more recently housing his follow-up, seafood restaurant Iki-Jime. Now, fellow renowned chef Scott Pickett is hoping to continue the venue's tradition with his latest venture Chancery Lane.
Opening its doors just before Christmas, the European bistro is certainly off to a good start, settling into the space with its moodily lit dining zones, curved banquettes and arched windows framed in dapper black steel. Raft Studio and design firm Bergman & Co have teamed up with Creative Director Stuart Neil (Ezard, Estelle by Scott Pickett) to bring the vision to life, with finishes showcasing bespoke wares from local artisans, as well as a collection of antique finds.
Head Chef Rob Kabboord (Lekker, Quay, Merricote) is plating up a menu of Euro-accented bistro fare that's at once timeless and unafraid of modern technique. An expansive seafood selection kicks things off, featuring a range of caviar served by the gram or the tin, alongside bites like the Storm Bay clam finished with chive and cucumber, and Hervey Bay scallops starring fennel and finger lime. If this section is where your heart lies, you can even opt for a two- or four-person seafood platter.
Tania Bahr Vollrath
A rich black truffle and foie gras toastie makes for a decadent snack, as does the gruyère-laced dry-aged duck and shiitake burger — surely a cult favourite in the making. Deeper in, you might find yourself tucking into a delicate Robbins Island tartare topped with a potato crisp and caviar, the 'poulet au cidre' chicken done with calvados and apple, or a generous Yarra Valley Berkshire pork cutlet teamed with vichy-style carrots. And, while the cheese selection features an impressive, global lineup, prepare to be more than little swayed by lush desserts like the raspberry and gin baba.
A grand, broad-ranging wine cellar rounds out the fun, including drops sourced from across Australia and the world, and a pick of top-shelf wines displayed artfully in a former safe within one of the dining room walls.
Find Chancery Lane at 430 Little Collins Street, Melbourne. It's open 12pm–10pm Monday–Friday and from 6pm–10pm Saturdays.
Images: Tania Bahr-Vollrath