Best Wine Bars in Southbank

Just had a wonderful Christmas lunch here. We love Punch Lane, as it has such a great atmosphere and today was no exception. So much food - really delicious and varied dishes. Great wine selection and terrific service, as usual. A lovely way to celebrate Christmas with my beloved.

Amazing food, great service. Would have bought a cook book if there was one for sale!

We booked very last minute, just a few days before Christmas while we were attending a concert (matinee), and were absolutely delighted. The menu wasn’t huge in terms of choice, but they were still able to accommodate one very picky eater and one diner with several dietary restrictions. The food was excellent — a big step up from the many standard middle eastern eateries around Melbourne. We started with freshly made hummus (the breads were replenished when we ran out), a rice dish, and the chicken option. The chicken came with a steaming hot pour-over sauce that was like nothing we’ve ever tasted. A real stand out! For dessert, we shared a small tart: lemon meringue with pistachios. It was exquisite, with thin, melt-in-the-mouth pastry and beautifully balanced sour-versus-sweet flavours. The service was stellar with timely attentiveness, and the décor was stylish - almost French in design. Even though it was a small restaurant, it felt surprisingly spacious. We were so glad to have found this gem only a few minutes’ walk from Swanston St. Our only suggestion would be to consider the music choices. Perhaps something themed with the food might add to the ambiance?

First time patron. The vibe is nice, the staff are excellent and the food was delicious. Will definitely come again.

I have always said it was a great venue for a casual business lunch. A venue you can relax with your clients and talk shop. This time round it was awesome to share plates with the client and whack a bottle of the Wild Duck Grenache which was recommended by staff and highly appreciated. Will book again. Thanks to the team, Kate, and James !!!!