Amarillo — Restaurant in Melbourne

Good for drinks but an unfortunate place to eat. It was $170 for two people and we left hungry whilst also waiting an hour for food. First, the Coke Zero that came out was completely flat with zero fizz. We didn’t care too much until the entree’s took 30 minutes to come out. For entree, we ordered crudo, oysters and fries, being cold and fried it shouldn’t take that long. The crudo was not my taste, I found it very acidy but it could be your thing. Oysters and fries were good. The serving size was rather small so we added the barramundi croquettes to our order which took 20 minutes to come out. The croquettes we found out were frozen because one of the small fish pieces was still frozen and the middle cold and damp. The mains came out about 5 minutes after the croquettes which means we waited nearly an hour at this point. We ordered the roast chicken and octopus. The octopus still had suckers on and was very rubbery. The roast chicken portion size was only one singular chicken breast with two hair strand leeks so it was amazing how long it took to come out, I would say though it did taste quite nice. When we entered, the place was rather empty with other tables having only ordering drinks and the popcorn so I see no reason for the food taking so long. This is a place to stick to for drinks and snacks only - not a meal.

The service was quite odd. No one asked us how the service was, gave us updates on the food or checked up on us. It wasn’t busy either - everyone else was...

We are regulars here usually during the week. The staff are friendly and the drinks are great. But on Friday evening 27 June I walked in and asked for a table for two only to be treated so rudely by a staff member with dark curly chin length hair, facial hair, dark skin and relatively skinny. I would have happily left if there were no tables but this guy told me that there was space at the bar, instructed me I have to leave by 7pm but if a table became available he would let me know. When my friend arrived the same staff member told us we could sit at another part of the bar and rudely told us we could have those seat until 7:30pm. He then literally chucked a water bottle and two glasses where we were seated. Not long after we saw a couple walk in and ask if there was a table for two. They didn’t have a reservation either but the same guy led them to a table that was available. By 7:30pm after having our cocktails we left only to be given the bill by this same rude guy. They were many empty spaces but he never offered us a table or spot to have dinner. Never been treated so rudely. We will never go back again no matter what day...

Amarillo is a true gem tucked away on Brunswick Street. From the moment you walk in, the warm and relaxed ambiance sets the tone for a memorable evening. The lighting is soft, the music is thoughtfully chosen, and the whole place feels effortlessly cool without trying too hard.

The food is absolutely delicious. Every dish that came out of the kitchen was well-balanced, creative, and full of flavour. The menu changes regularly, but everything we tried was fresh, beautifully presented, and clearly made with care. It’s the kind of spot where you want to order one of everything just to see what else the kitchen can surprise you with.

We also happened to catch happy hour, which was a lovely bonus — great value on cocktails and fresh oysters until 7pm. The service was friendly and attentive, with staff who really know the menu and are happy to guide you through it.

If you're after an intimate and stylish spot in Fitzroy with top-notch food and wine, Amarillo is hard to beat. Highly recommend for date night, a quiet catch-up, or just a treat-yourself...