Abelli Estate Winery — Restaurant in Melbourne

Expensive for your typical Greek menu. Meat skewers, dips, pita, grilled seafood etc. $40 for two skewers, and typical trimmings. But quality was good and kitchen was quick.

However, as much as we enjoyed the food and views, management and front end of staff is not worthy of the $40 price tag on Greek street food.

Firstly, though food came out early for us, we noticed that table behind us got pretty cheesed off that their food came later than ours even though they ordered before we arrived. So much so, they left before we finished our food and didn’t finish.

The service was the poorest service I have experienced, seemed to be run by an owner sort type with no actual service experience. We sat for 20 minutes after our main meal watching their movements. 3 front of staff- one hired staff and two ( older lady and gentleman). Hired staff was composed but could only do so much. The restaurant had not been designated to areas so no one knew who was taking care which tables. The older lady and older man though intentions may be good are not capable to run front of house. It took us 3 times, each time to different service staff to inform them that we have finished our mains and to please clear. Very obviously so we could have dessert. But each time, the clearing of plates was done incompletely. For example, The older lady would clear glasses, then proceeded to clear other finished tables glasses and then never came back to us. After that I again called for service from the older gentleman who seemed to run place. He cleared one portion of plates with a lighter in hand then said he’ll get someone to take dessert orders, never came back! Never told anyone else to take our orders and then proceeded to make himself a drink at the bar! By the time we notified the third staff and told her what happened, she was apologetic but it had completely ruined our meal. So we left.

As she walked us out to pay, and also walking the dirty dishes to the cleaning area which is next to the reception, she told the older lady about it and she had bad-mouthed us and we heard everything.

I then texted the establishment ( only mobile ) feedback and did not receive a reply.

Basically, overpriced meat platters with service from your typical fish and chip shop owners. Literally, when you pay, your tab is counted on paper. So make sure they write the proper numbers because they overcharged us. In fact, you might get better service from your local fish and chip shop.

Get experienced people to run...

Please note: This review has nothing to do with the food-this review is about our experience dealing with Abelli Esate On Monday 3 Jan 2022 I rang Abelli Winery and booked a table for four for Sunday 9 Jan (lunch). Christos took the call. I found it odd that he did not ask for my contact number but assumed my mobile would have shown on his so obviously he could contact me should he wish to confirm the booking later in the week. On Friday 7 Jan, I rang the winery again to confirm the booking. Speaking to Christos again, I was angrily advised that we needed to arrive at the winery on time ie by 11:30 am and no later than 11:45 am. Christos, in a very rude and abrupt tone advised me that our table would not be held after this time. I assured him we would be there by 11:30 am. On Sunday morning we programmed the address to Google maps only to be advised my Google that our chosen destination may be closed on Sunday 9 Jan. We thought surely not as we would have been contacted by Christos to advise of any change. Nevertheless, I rang Abelli winery just in case and Christos informed us that they were not able to open the winery due to COVID. I totally understand that during these difficult times, unexpected closures can and do occur. What is unforgivable and totally unprofessional is to NOT notify the people who had made a booking and were going to travel to a destination more than 90 minutes from their home. Christos could have and should have had the decency to call or send a text to people even if it was very early in the morning to let us know of the closure. I am thankful that we did not travel all that way only to find it closed. Our party was really looking forward to going to this winery but they have lost us forever. COVID has affected the Victorian hospitality industry extremely hard and we have been doing our small bit since we came out of lockdown to support Victorian restaurants. But maybe Abelli should consider treating us (potential customers) with the same respect we have tried...

Abelli Estate Winery is a haven for food and wine lovers alike, offering a culinary experience that’s nothing short of extraordinary. The estate is as renowned for its exquisite wines as it is for its thoughtfully crafted food pairings, each dish an exploration of local flavors with an elevated, modern twist.

Every meal at Abelli feels like a curated affair. The chef’s attention to seasonal ingredients and inventive techniques transform each course into a celebration of taste, texture, and artistry. From the velvety textures of the estate’s signature reds to the crisp, refreshing whites, every sip complements the dishes in a way that feels effortlessly refined. The charcuterie boards are a standout, artfully arranged with locally sourced cheeses, cured meats, and garnishes that highlight the terroir’s distinct flavors.

But the true magic of Abelli Estate lies in its staff. The team is warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the winery’s offerings. Each server and sommelier exudes a knowledge and enthusiasm that brings the entire experience to life, always ready to share stories behind the wines or recommend pairings that surprise and delight. Their hospitality turns an exceptional meal into a memorable, personal journey.

Abelli Estate Winery is more than a tasting experience; it’s a symphony of flavors, people, and place. Every moment is crafted to linger in memory, inviting you to return for yet another taste of their hospitality and culinary mastery.

An unforgettable journey in every glass and plate, Abelli Estate is truly a gem...