Menu of Spoonbill Restaurant and Bar in South Yarra, Victoria, Australia

Menu Overview

Spoonbill Restaurant and Bar, nestled in the vibrant corner of South Yarra’s Chapel Street, offers a refined yet approachable Modern Australian dining experience. This venue effortlessly marries fresh, local ingredients with thoughtful culinary techniques, creating dishes that are both visually stunning and deeply satisfying.

The menu stands out for its diverse range of options, reflecting a balance between classic and contemporary tastes. The 250-gram eye fillet grass-fed steak, served with a rich red wine jus, broccolini soy sesame, and toasted almonds, is a clear highlight. Cooked to precision, it delivers tender, juicy meat that holds the strong flavour of the jus without overpowering. This dish is a testament to Spoonbill’s mastery of steak — a point repeatedly praised by diners who appreciate the consistent quality of their proteins.

Another must-try is the vegan big breakfast, which innovatively brings plant-based dining to the spotlight without compromise in flavour or substance. The thoughtfully composed citrus salad and smashed avocado with perfectly poached eggs complement the light yet satisfying brunch offering. For those seeking refreshing, healthful options, the strawberries with chia pudding provide a bright, textured experience that cleverly balances sweetness and freshness.

Dessert here is an art form. The chocolate fondant paired with salted caramel macadamia ice cream and dried orange zest crafts a complex flavor profile—rich but not cloying, with a delicate tang from the citrus. The affogato with Frangelico offers a strong, aromatic finish to any meal, perfectly marrying coffee’s bitterness with the hazelnut liqueur’s smooth warmth.

The bar menu shouldn't be overlooked. Cocktails such as the Espresso Martini and the vibrant Watermelon Tune showcase a creative mixology approach that complements the food. This synergy enhances the overall dining atmosphere, making Spoonbill an ideal spot to unwind after a busy day.

Express lunch options demonstrate Spoonbill’s adaptability to different dining needs, featuring choices like chargrilled steak sandwiches with Swiss cheese and caramelized onions or lightly battered rockling fish with tartare sauce and fries. These dishes emphasize comfort and quality, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

The customer reviews echo the quality and ambiance. Patrons appreciate the family-friendly environment, attentive service — particularly noted by the manager Said — and the engaging culinary creativity of chef Anda. Some remarks suggest subtle improvements, like enhancing the moisture in beef ribs or achieving a crunchier pork belly skin. Nonetheless, the general consensus celebrates a highly enjoyable experience with a menu that caters adeptly across taste preferences and dietary needs.

In sum, Spoonbill Restaurant and Bar offers a well-curated Modern Australian menu that excels in both innovation and execution. It invites guests to savor authentic, well-crafted dishes in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting. Whether for a casual brunch, an elegant dinner, or lively drinks with friends, this spot stands out as a reliable culinary destination in Melbourne’s dining landscape.