The Strand: Fine Dining in Williamstown — Restaurant in Melbourne

Good menu, poor experience.

We arrived at 12pm and were keen to try the entire range of entrees. The restaurant had just opened for the day and we were the second couple seated and a waitress took our order almost immediately - we literally asked “instead of a starter each and a main, we’d like 1/2 dozen oysters and one serve of each you starters” (of which there were 5) “and then we’ll order dessert”. We made sure to be clear that we meant one serve, not one serve ‘each’ after the waitress gave us an odd look.

This is something my wife and I often do to try the range of the menu and has always resulted in a couple small dishes at a time being brought out. Instead we had all of the dishes served at the same time, they literally struggled to fit them on the tiny table. Not the worst experience, but obviously some of the dishes were approaching cold by the time we got to them. I guess we hadn’t been clear, and maybe it’s not something they do or difficult for their kitchen to stagger an order. But I’m guessing that the waitress hadn’t told the kitchen this was for a table of two or to stagger the order.

The starters were quite good. Juicy prawns, a great Spanish style spiced squid salad with pearl couscous, fried halloumi with honey and almonds, melt in your mouth carpaccio with roast figs… just a pity we had to rush through everything before the halloumi became a solid congealed brick.

Since we had been the first order for the day, we were also the first served and were done with our starters first also. After they had cleared the table it was probably 15-20 mins of being ignored (the staff were not that busy) before someone took our dessert order or asked if we’d like another drink. We ordered a dessert each and another drink. Drinks were served and then after 40 minutes, still no dessert. We had long since finished our drink, the floor staff were still mingling about, not run off their feet, and didn’t visit us once in that time.

Eventually I got up and asked a waiter if they could let us know how long it would be until dessert. The waiter was apologetic and said he’d find out. He never came back to our table and avoided eye contact with me several times as we continued to wait. Then my wife finally caught the eye of our original waitress and asked again. 5 mins later they arrived. Simple pre-prepared dishes, that came straight of a fridge and to the plate. They were nice, but no reason we should have waited an hour for them.

The Strand could really benefit from investing in some more experienced, professional wait staff to match their menu. They are letting your kitchen down. Also costing you money. After 2hrs in the restaurant I only drank two glasses of wine, because I was only asked if I’d like another...

One month ago on 8th Oct, we had the most joyful wedding reception lunch (and afternoon) at this wonderful venue. From our first meeting with Linda, to saying our goodbyes at the end of our reception, every interaction was a positive, enjoyable experience. Linda listened to us patiently and offered suggestions as our plans evolved from a small table of 10 on the deck to quite a few more guests in the Ivy Room! (Linda also referred us to Monstera Flowers - another great local business in Williamstown which we highly recommend). Without her input, we would not have had the most wonderful experience that was our wedding celebration. Joey, Olivia and Jason delivered service beyond expectation! The food was exquisite with a variety of dietary requirements catered for (thankyou Chef Huy), the wine/drinks selection was just right (thanks to Linda's recommendations!) the service was impeccable and the setting with views wa breathtaking. Every one of our guests commented on the fantastic location, the ambience, the delicious food, the wine and how wonderful the staff were (not just for their service, but for their professionalism, friendliness and genuine concern to make sure everyone was attended to). Everyone enjoyed themselves immensely!! We cannot recommend the team at The Strand highly enough - they contributed to making our wedding day celebration most memorable! We have been to the restaurant previously for lunches and dinner and on every occasion, the experience has...

I recently dined at The Strand and was thoroughly impressed with the experience.

From the moment we walked in, the warm, inviting atmosphere and views of the bay set the tone for an unforgettable meal. The wait staff was attentive and friendly.

The Grilled Atlantic salmon fillet I ordered was a feast for the senses. It was perfectly cooked, with a juicy and succulent flavour that melted in my mouth. The tomato & basil braised chickpeas were a standout, with their delicate and well-balanced flavours.

We also ordered Linguine marinara, which was the best I've had in a long time. Perfectly seasoned, the creamy texture and the generous amounts of seafood made for a truly satisfying experience. The freshness of the seafood was evident, and it was clear that the restaurant takes pride in sourcing fine ingredients.

I highly recommend this seafood restaurant to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. The food is exceptional, the atmosphere is inviting, and the service is top-notch. I can't wait to go back and try some of their other dishes.

Meals: Oysters Kilpatrick Linguine marinara; prawns, mussels, scallops, calamari, fish, chilli, garlic, white wine, basil, cherry tomatoes Grilled Atlantic salmon fillet, tomato & basil braised chickpeas, asparagus spears, preserved lemon & wholegrain mustard sauce

Beverages: 2020 Villa Parini Pinot Grigio 2019 Lawson Dry Hills Pinot Gris Reserve

Dessert/coffee: Affogato...