Melrose

Hidden away just off Oxford Street in Bulimba you'll find Melrose, a dreamy restaurant and bar that has just been taken over by experienced husband and wife duo, Paul and Anna Adams. Originally designed to feel like one of Bali’s luxe beach clubs and resorts, a fully retractable roof means this spot has all the rooftop vibes—we recommend getting a booking for just before sunset, so you can get the full effect but still finish your meal under the stars.

The eatery's latest winter menu is a delicious fusion of South East Asian flavours that will warm you up from the inside out—think flame-seared kingfish with nahm jim, coconut and avruga caviar, five spice duck pancakes, lobster rolls, black angus beef brisket rendang and crispy pork knuckle, just to name a few. The star of the show, however, is a charcoal grilled wagyu rump cap MB 8-9 with ponzu, crying tiger sauce, and coriander salsa verde to accompany every last decadent bite. 

Of course, for a true holiday resort feel, you need to have a drink in your hand, and rest assured there’s plenty you’ll want to sip on the drinks menu. The very tropical cocktail line-up includes the likes of a Flamin' Galah, with pink gin, lychee liqueur, lime juice, watermelon juice, agave and chilli, and a Love Me Lychee, with vodka, lychee liquer, lychee syrup, pineapple and lemon. If hitting the vino is more your vibe, there’s also a lengthy wine and beer list. 

Image credit: Supplied 

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