Bar Lourinhã

Even if its fresh, current energy makes that designation seem weird, Bar Lourinh's overwhelming 15-year influence on Melbourne's dining scene DNA has it skirting institution status. Matt McConnell's Iberian-inspired menu is a love letter to the Mediterranean's bars and tavernas, a blend of skilled cooking and great ingredients like corn and smoked chili croquettes, grilled chorizo and pork liver pinxos, Goolwa pipis steamed with fino sherry, lemon buuelos with dulce de leche, or the irresistible menu favorite, spiced chickpeas and spinach.

It's ageless and essential thanks to a vibrant soundtrack, attentive service, and décor that skillfully blends cool and sophisticated (leather banquettes and dark oak tables) with exuberant kitsch (massed religious imagery and op shop paintings).

The blackboard wine list, which is leaning toward Spanish without being didactic, adopts a "all that is good in the world" approach, perfectly echoing the atmosphere inside Lourinh's bar.

Address: 37 Little Collins St, Melbourne, Vic

Phone: (03) 9663 7890

Website:barlourinha.com.au