Southgate Moveable Feasts are back this winter with a program of Sunday lunches and Monday dinners that take diners on a delicious journey across a variety of global cuisines.
Showcasing three delectable courses each from a different Southgate restaurant, Southgate Moveable Feasts epitomises the changing dining trends of today as Melburnians look for new and different casual dining experiences.
We were led through a unique dining experience as we wandered from restaurant to restaurant, sampling unique world-class cuisines from Italian to Modern Australian.
First Stop: Bluetrain
Phone: 03 9696 0111
Cuisine: Modern Australian
An expansive café and bar with floor to high ceiling windows overlooking the Yarra River, Bluetrain is a brilliant Melbourne meeting spot.
It’s 2013 major facelift sees the restaurant spotting a new look which combines eclectic and quirky materials, bespoke designs and a light feature using yellow bicycle wheels to adorn the walls and graffiti art pillars.
Marinated Kangaroo fillet served on a salt bush and fresh raspberry salad with candied prosciutto and an Australian bush finger lime dressing
A dish of fresh and delicious flavours, the kangaroo was perfectly cooked with its flavours further enhanced by the lovely bush finger lime dressing. The fruity acidity of raspberry salad and the restrained savouriness of candied prosciutto introduced further layers of complexity.
Calamari Dusted with Smoked Paprika, cumin and chickpea flour with a lime and bronze fennel leaf yoghurt
Tender ribbons of battered calamari were perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin and went beautifully with the lime and bronze fennel leaf yoghurt.
La Camera encapsulates the Italian style of dining, urging patrons to "Mangia! Mangia!" in an intimate gathering while cherishing a meal which honours classical Italian flavours.
Gnocchi con coda di bue brasato
The potato and ricotta gnocchi was a superb dish that was highlighted by the light gnocchi which captivated with its “melt in your mouth" texture. We loved the flavoursome oxtail and just the perfect amount of heat delivered by the chilli which cut through the overall richness of this hearty dish.
Filetto di Salmone
The skin of the salmon was perfectly seared to be very crisp while the flesh was delicate and moist. It was a dish that allowed the natural subtle sweetness of the salmon to be enjoyed.
An Italian restaurant with Italian hospitality La Camera delivers warm and friendly service and an authentic Italian dining experience which celebrates the smells, taste and comfort of a country-style Italian home.
Third stop: The Deck
Conveniently located right next door to Melbourne's Hamer Hall and Arts Centre, The Deck offers exquisitely prepared European and international inspired cuisine.
The elegant setting which features a French style charcuterie and a full wine display set the tone for a modern yet inviting atmosphere.
We absolutely adored both the desserts we sampled at The Deck.
Chocolate ganache, mandarin, milk crumb
The visually attractive dessert of “Chocolate ganache, mandarin, milk crumb” was beautiful. The slightly tart mandarins, together with the milk crumb, worked well with the decadent dark chocolate ganache to produce a balanced and delectable dessert. We enjoyed the addition of dually crunchy and airy meringues which contrasted perfectly with the soft ganache.
Hazelnut mousse, toasted brioche, pear
The dessert of “Hazelnut mousse, toasted brioche, pear” was again, beautifully presented. The mousse was rich with decadent hazelnut notes and had a luxurious velvety texture which was thoroughly enjoyable. The sweet morsels of pear harmonised with the biscuit-like crumble and mousse beautifully. It was an exquisite dessert.
Get on it!
With a host guiding the journey to each establishment, discoveries will be made along the way uncovering the stories behind Melbourne’s eclectic world of riverside eateries.
What: A three course journey throughout Southgate’s restaurant precinct, sampling unique presentations of world-class cuisines.
When: Sunday 14 June - Monday 3 August. 12pm Sundays & 7pm Mondays
Where: Southgate Restaurant and Shopping Precinct, Melbourne. Southgate is located on the south bank of the Yarra River, directly opposite Flinders St Station.
Cost: Choose from three course dining options for $65pp or $85pp. Entrée and main courses each include a glass of wine and dessert is served with tea or coffee.
Bookings: Online bookings only, at www.southgatemelbourne.com.au
Enquiries: Southgate Restaurant and Shopping Precinct, 03 9686 1000
Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of Southgate.
