Paynesville Wine Bar — Restaurant in Victoria

REPLY EDITED BELOW

This place has had multiple owners since it first opened years ago. It has changed a lot and in my opinion, unfortunately not for the better. I visit Paynesville a few times a year. Tonight I stopped by this place unplanned with a relative. We were made to feel unwelcome because we didn’t book, but the owner reluctantly let us in. It wasn’t packed, plenty of room. There was no sign on the door saying there was a cover charge, no obvious advertising about music. Guess you need to be a local to know. I happily paid the cover charge when made aware but I ended up leaving with a sour taste in my mouth from the experience. My relative and I took our business elsewhere where the music was better and the staff were friendly and welcoming (and that place was packed). I am a champion for all kinds of live music and paying artists and musicians appropriately however this owner doesn’t seem to want the business. When there’s a gig on at a wine bar, it’s either sold out (so put a sold out sign on the door), or it’s not, in which case, be clear about cover charge and welcome drop ins from the start (with a smile). I’m annoyed I didn’t leave earlier.

ADDITIONAL EDIT BELOW I would have paid for two cover charges (not one), which is totally fair but didn’t realise what the cost was as I saw no signage in the place. We stood right up the back for most of the time because we were told multiple times with a deadpan face that all seats were booked. My elderly relative only sat down on a chair up the back when we saw a chair off to the side, by itself against the wall, with her name on it. She has her name on it because she has been a loyal and regular patron of this place since it opened. I have heard a few stories like mine from others, but they haven’t left a Google review. Suggest the owner takes a look at how wine bars in busier locations accommodate their patrons on...

A short but memorable experience visiting this intimate wine bar. We stopped by for a pre-dinner drink. A welcoming & warm environment from the moment we opened the door. We enjoyed chatting to the staff and patrons who were super friendly & fun. Great selection of local wines. Definitely recommend a visit here during your stay at Paynesville. We will be...

Very rude owner imo, his business was closed and as we were waiting for friends to go over on the farry he came out and told us of because our 2 kids were playing. What right do you have to do this, they were playing around the poles and your business was CLOSED. Becareful if you are having fun there he might...