Overview
For a suburb sandwiched between South Melbourne, St Kilda and Australia's only Formula 1 track (sorry, Adelaide), Middle Park still feels like a well-guarded secret. But if there's one thing that's been shining a spotlight on otherwise slept-on suburbs in the post-pandemic era, it's the opening of a cosy neighbourhood wine bar — and, finally, it's the leafy bayside neighbourhood's turn to join the snack-and-sip party with the opening of Middle Park European.
This smart, sun-washed new bistro has landed in the charming Armstrong Street village, care of the fast-expanding Valarc Group, the team behind Richmond's Tartine Bistro, Windsor's Ines Wine Bar and Sistine, The Meatball & Wine Bar, and Ned's Bake & Bistro (which has an outpost further down Armstrong Street). The venue features an Italian- and French-leaning menu and channels the spirit of the all-day wine bars more typically found in Europe — and to that end, this newcomer is open for lunch and dinner.
Chege Mbuthi
The design is a nod to both old-world Europe and the heritage architecture of its location, with walnut detailing hand-crafted by a local boatbuilder, imported Italian lighting, rustic tiling and natural stone finishes coming together to bring a touch of Paris or Rome to Melbourne's inner south.
At the pass is Head Chef Aaron Wrafter, whose resume includes time at Michelin-starred Birmingham restaurants Turners and Harborne Kitchen. Under the mentorship of legendary chef Ian Curley, he's crafted a considered menu that spans from small plates, like crab with fennel on milk loaf and stracciatella with pickled chilli, mint, persimmon and pistachio, to more substantial dishes like handmade pastas, dry-aged steaks, and even fish and chips.
Chege Mbuthi
The drinks program is equally thoughtful. There's an approachable lineup of Australian, French and Italian wines — including drops from Valarc's own Sandhill Estate in the Macedon Ranges — as well as a selection of premium champagnes and a cocktail list inspired by the group's other venues.
"We wanted to create a place that feels like home for the community and surrounding suburbs, but also a destination worth visiting," says Valarc Group owner — and proud Albert Park resident — Matteo Bruno. Now that Middle Park is on the Melbourne wine bar map, Bruno may have done just that.
Chege Mbuthi
Chege Mbuthi
Chege Mbuthi
Middle Park European is now open at 20 Armstrong Street, Middle Park. It's open Tuesday–Sunday for lunch and dinner. For more information, head to the venue's website.
Top image: Chege Mbuthi.