Overview
We sadly bade farewell to Ferdydurke earlier this year, one of our favourite bars in Melbourne's CBD. Since opening in 2012, it stood out among the sleek and highly polished bars of the city, deciding instead to embrace its rougher edges and provide an unpretentious space for both chill hangs and live music-fuelled parties.
But even though it's now gone, the Office of Public Works group (Section 8, The Beast and formerly Ferdydurke) has teamed up with some of the hospo legends who originally helped set up Ferdydurke to create its replacement: Aster.
Thankfully, not too much has changed. The loft's exposed brickwork and beams remain, as does the roaring fireplace. What you will notice though, is that it all feels a little more grown-up, from the contemporary wine list and refined snacks to the team replacing live gigs with DJs.
Aster also has some serious date-night vibes — its design lends itself to being a playfully romantic spot that's less about big parties (you can still head downstairs to Section 8 for this) and more about intimate hangs. Nonetheless, the crew still promises dancefloor energy on weekends. We've been told to expect anything from jazzy house and cumbia rhythms to northern soul and smooth amapiano.
While listening to these tunes, you'll be sipping on a range of classic and modern styles of wine, specialty beers, signature cocktails and artisanal spirits, with a particular focus on local producers.
Food has also been given a big makeover, as Executive Chef Jarrod Moore has created a playfully decadent assortment of bites. You can expect dishes like saison black truffle and squid ink salami with guindillas; dark chocolate and rye whiskey marquise, fire-roasted peppers with smoked tomato and goat's cheese; and a poached prawn roll with pickled celery and burnt butter aioli.
"I'm excited to show guests that going out in Melbourne doesn't have to break the bank, that they can enjoy a few drinks in a safe space, try something new or stick to what they know," says Venue Manager Manny Platsis. "We want to offer patrons a memorable experience, focusing on true hospitality in a warm, welcoming and fun environment."
You'll find Aster at 31 Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne, open 5pm–midnight from Tuesday–Thursday, and 5pm–2am on Fridays and Saturdays. For more details, head to the venue's website.
Images: Arianna Leggiero.