Places to visit…….food and wine to enjoy! (October issue)

Published: 19/10/2011

Two Bob

270 Queens Parade, Clifton Hill

Café

Open for breakfast and lunch Monday to Sunday

This is a former bank building that stands as a formidable white period building at the lower end of Queens Parade. You would be forgiven for not knowing the café existed as it only opened last week! The owners are Vaughan & Sarah Kelly, a husband and wife duo, who live locally and are passionate about all things Clifton Hill. Their aim is to turn this venue into a ‘local’ you just enjoy frequenting. If you want a ‘pick me up’ drop in for a coffee or bite to eat - the space inside oozes with bright light and the staff are uber friendly!

L’Osteria Ristorante Pizzeria

616 Nicholson Street, North Fitzroy

Restaurant (Italian)

Open for dinner Tuesday - Sunday and lunch on Fridays

This is a little gem that more than satisfies the hungriest of customers. Again this is a husband and wife venture with Hema running front of house and Satinder in the kitchen. The business has been operating since 1986 which I think says it all! The cuisine is traditional Italian and Mediterranean with a great selection of house favourites. The venue has just launched a new wine list (we did have a big input) and is gearing up for functions over the festive season. Don’t fancy cooking tonight - then drop in on your way home if you live nearby.

Oliver’s Garden

The Strand, Queens Park, Moonee Ponds

Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch

Think functions, parties, lazy drinks in the garden……this is a must know summer venue that I wish was walking distance from my home. Located right next to the lake and set in an historic building in the centre of the garden, this venue has it all: indoor dining, outdoor dining a kid’s playground if required and new canopy extension to cater for private functions. The coffee is great, menu simple but satisfying and the cheeky little drinks menu showcases a number of boutique wines (supplied by yours truly). The menu has just changed and spring has arrived (this week anyway) so no excuses - go!

That’s all for now so happy sipping, drinking and dining! Cheers Sarah