Blondie Bar — Restaurant in Melbourne

Blondie, located next door to the Recital Centre Melbourne, is a hidden gem that has left a lasting impression. This venue has mastered the art of providing quick and friendly pre-show service, without sacrificing quality.

We kicked off our dinner with a Margarita and Negroni cocktail. Both were expertly crafted and delicious, showcasing the bartender's skillful touch.

The Crispy Calamari was a delightful combination of textures and flavours. The salt and pepper golden fried calamari, accompanied by the umami plum mayo, offered a pleasing blend of savoury and tangy notes. The crispy exterior gave way to tender calamari, leaving us wanting more with each bite. The mixed salad and fresh lemon provided a refreshing element that complemented the dish perfectly.

Next on the menu was the Chickpea Pakora & Burrata. The crispy chickpea and vegetable fritter showcased a delightful fusion of spices and textures. The buffalo burrata added a luxurious creaminess to the dish, while the salsa of red onion, mustard seeds, sundried tomato, and turmeric tzatziki brought forth a burst of vibrant flavors. This dish celebrated vegetarian cuisine with its complexity and inventive combinations.

Saving the best for last, the Coconut Crème Brûlée was a culinary delight. The saffron and rosewater blanched rhubarb added a subtle floral essence, perfectly complemented by the roasted-chili cashew crumble. The berry tapioca crackling provided a delightful surprise of sweet bursts with each spoonful. The velvety smoothness of the coconut creme brulee, combined with the well-balanced flavors, created a dessert that was both indulgent and refined.

Blondie has mastered the art of culinary excellence and curated a memorable experience. The meticulous attention to detail, the creativity evident in the menu, and the outstanding service make this restaurant a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional pre-show dining experience in Melbourne.

Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, a lover of seafood, or someone with a sweet tooth, Blondie has something to offer. I wholeheartedly recommend this establishment to those looking to embark on a culinary adventure. Prepare to be captivated and depart with memories that will linger long after your...

Blondie Bar in Southbank offers a delightful pre-concert dining experience, especially for those with vision impairments. Located conveniently next to the Melbourne Recital Centre, it’s an ideal spot for a meal before a show.

The staff at Blondie Bar are exceptionally attentive and courteous. They ensure that guests with vision impairments are comfortably seated and well-informed about their meals, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The ambiance is both elegant and welcoming, with a blend of Asian and French-inspired décor that complements the diverse menu. The salmon fillets are a standout, cooked to perfection and accompanied by fresh, well-seasoned vegetables. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the mocktails are refreshing and thoughtfully crafted, with options like a delightful pineapple version. 

Service is prompt, ensuring that meals are served in a timely manner without feeling rushed. The staff’s mindfulness in serving dishes and their polite demeanor contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable dining atmosphere.

Overall, Blondie Bar provides an excellent dining experience with top-notch service, making it a recommended choice for anyone seeking quality food and attentive hospitality...

We ate here before a show and were disappointed with the food and value for money.

We had four dishes - calamari, green curry, prawn dumplings, and asian greens - and each suffered from an obvious fault. The calamari had been overcooked so that it was tough; the green curry was overly sweet and lacked any sour or salty tones; the prawn dumplings had been drowned in a soy based sauce so that it was not possible to taste the filling; the asian greens had been stir fried so briefly that they lacked the flavour from the wok and the lack of cooking meant the texture of the snowpeas, bok choy and asparagus was as if they were raw.

To be blunt the food felt unloved and uncared for, and tasted exactly like that. The whole scene was topped off by waiters, including one who wore a food preparation glove on his hand, walking around but not doing much.

I appreciate they have a captive market with the recital centre but this is a real lost opportunity. I hope our experience...