Cumulus Inc. — Restaurant in Melbourne

We made a reservation a week in advance for our anniversary dinner expecting a pleasant, intimate dining experience. Unfortunately, from the moment we arrived, the service and overall experience fell far short of expectations. When we arrived, we were shocked to find that, despite the reservation with specific reason - a special occasion, we were seated at bar stools. We would have expected a proper table to be reserved for us, or at the very least, a call ahead to ask if we’d be comfortable sitting on stools with a direct view into the busy kitchen. This was not the “chef’s table” experience we were looking for on our anniversary. Had it not been for the generous voucher we had been gifted for this restaurant, we likely would have turned around the moment we were offered those uncomfortable bar stools. It was meant to be a special occasion, not a regular dining experience—and yet, that’s exactly how we were treated. After raising our concerns about the seating, we were told that our reservation hadn’t been for a table—a point that wasn’t made clear when booking. Despite the numerous empty tables around the restaurant, we were left in this awkward position. Eventually, we were moved to a table, but that didn’t fully erase the frustration. The service was excruciatingly slow. We waited nearly 30 minutes before being offered a drink, and our first entrée didn’t arrive until almost an hour later. The second entrée followed 45 minutes after that—far too long for any fine dining experience. The staff seemed rushed and disorganised, adding to the sense of being hurried along. The manager, who was in charge that evening, displayed an alarming lack of people skills. From the very start, he spoke to us as if he were doing us a favor by seating us, making us feel unwelcome and uncomfortable. To top it off, when our main course arrived at 7:49pm, we were told we had to vacate the table by 8pm for the next seating. He even suggested we move to the bar for dessert—imagine the audacity!! As if the poor service wasn’t enough, the seating arrangement put us directly in front of the cramped kitchen, where we could see everything—steaks flying in and out of the oven and a chef even getting burned by hot liquid as he turned to place a tray back in. It was a chaotic and unappealing view, further diminishing the overall experience. The food was decent, but hardly exceptional. The potatoes and steak gravy were the only standout items, while everything else was forgettable. After dining in fine restaurants around the world, we can honestly say this was one of the most disappointing experiences we’ve ever had. Between the rushed service, lackluster food, and the manager’s unprofessional behavior, we will not be returning to Cumulus Inc. It’s such a shame because this restaurant has potential, but the overall experience was unforgettable for all the wrong reasons. Sadly, this anniversary dinner will be remembered as one of the worst dining experiences we’ve...

This has been the most frustrating and humiliating experience we've ever had at a restaurant in Melbourne! We saw this restaurant on Gimlet's page, and decided to give it a go for my husband's 30th birthday dinner.

-The ambience was alright, too busy and loud. Not our taste.

-Asked for a wine bottle suggestion, that they got it right! Liked it and the Sommelier came back to see if we liked it!.

-For food we just opted in for the set-menu, hoping to try the best on the menu and not waste time on the guessing game. The veg options could use more creativity.

-The waitress seemed friendly at first. However we left with so much anger in the end.

-Came in early, got seated at around 8:20 and probably put in the order by 8:40. Got the desserts at around 11! For a set-menu, you already know what we are having for the rest of the night. How bad is the planning that 4 courses were spread over 2.5hrs (when the reservation is limited to 2hrs!)

-I started noting the timeliness and guess what? We got our main courses almost 1 hr after the previous course!!! In that one hour, not one person came to checkin if we needed water, more drinks nothing! let alone inform us why its taking so long. I almost wanted to leave by then, but just wanted to pull through the dessert course so that I could wish my partner. So we get our main course at 10:20, and at 10:40 I requested the waitress that we're done with the meal and if you could please get our desserts quickly. (She could have easily sensed my irritation, but did not ask anything). Another 20mins wait time, during which the table beside us (bigger group, came in an hour after us) get their desserts before us. Are you serious ?

-And again throughout the dinner nobody checked on us if we wanted anything else, if we liked anything (expect the sommelier ). No explanation of any courses too.

-I booked a few days ago I guess and requested for a message and candle with the dessert. Simon from Cumulus emailed that they don't do messages but could provide the candle. I personally called him and said candle is fine. At the restaurant, they did note and remember that it was a birthday and wished us. But fast forward to dessert time, no candle or any sign of birthday! The table beside us received their desserts at the same time, with two people on the table celebrating and both of them were acknowledged! I wouldn't usually care for it, but it was a special one and had personally called to tell! Left the desserts coz we had no mood by then.

We waited around the counter before paying to have a chat about our experience (as the waitress wouldn't ask!). The hostess/venue manager(tall and slim lady) wouldn't meet eyes with us! She held the door open for guests exiting before us, but she wouldn't even look at us! All this behaviour point towards an obvious reason which I don't want to call out. So just paid and left. That was $300...

A Culinary Symphony of Elegance at Cumulus

Cumulus, a name synonymous with culinary excellence, once again proved itself as a beacon of gastronomic brilliance during my today's dining experience. From the first bite to the last, each dish at Cumulus was a testament to the artistry and innovation that defines this establishment.

The Tuna Tartare was a mesmerizing introduction to the meal. The impeccably fresh tuna, delicately paired with goat's curd, green pea, and mint, created a symphony of flavors that danced on the palate. The combination of textures and the bright, refreshing notes from the mint showcased Cumulus's commitment to sourcing top-quality ingredients and crafting dishes with finesse.

The Fremantle Octopus continued to captivate my taste buds. Tender and expertly prepared, the octopus seamlessly blended with kipfler potato, chilli, and olive tapanade, offering a medley of tastes that unfolded with every forkful. The balance of heat from the chilli and the richness from the olive elevated this dish to a sublime gastronomic experience.

The pinnacle of the evening was reached with the Dry Aged Duck Breast. Cooked to perfection, the duck exhibited a tantalizing combination of crispines of skin, tenderness and depth of flavor. Golden beetroot added a subtle sweetness, while blackberry and pickled walnut provided a burst of contrasting notes. This dish was a masterclass in culinary ingenuity, showcasing Cumulus's dedication to pushing the boundaries of taste and presentation.

The ambiance at Cumulus was as inviting as the cuisine was exceptional. The simple yet classy decor set the stage for an memorable dining experience, overlooking chef's in action. The attentive staff (both front and back of the house), well-versed in the intricacies of the menu, added an extra layer of sophistication to the afternoon.

Cumulus has truly mastered the art of curating a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. From the creative composition of each dish to the seamless service, this restaurant stands as a paragon of culinary excellence. If you are seeking a gastronomic journey that marries innovation with style, Cumulus is the destination that will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the artistry of dining. This was my 4th wisit to Cumulus. Each visit to Cumulus is a celebration of flavor, and I eagerly anticipate my return to indulge in the culinary...