Restaurants near Boutique Stays - The Arena

You simply cannot go wrong stepping through the door…whether it’s the trattoria or bistro, your experience is nothing short of wonderful food care of the staff who make the whole thing look so effortless. Love it love it love it.

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?

Continues the long standing high level of friendly and helpful service, great food and extensive wine list. My favourite restaurant in Mewlbourne.

Attentive friendly staff, delicious food and a very relaxed vibe

Food service was a little slow between courses. At one stage 6 of had empty wine glasses despite paying $100 a head for the wine and having to order 2 bottles to get a drink