The solo diner seated next to us at the timber-top bar perfectly encapsulates the humble Reed House. A tattered well-read book in one hand, and a glass of wine gently nestled in the other, reading under the glowing pendant light hanging above—a single plate of silky cacio e pepe to come later.
Wesley Place is a happening little nook in Melbourne, best known as the home to Caretaker’s Cottage and Operator Diner. Now, it boasts a third drawcard, Reed House. The brasserie quietly humming away, filled with staff that make you feel right at home with their lax, yet attentive, service.
Reed House is nice—like, really nice. It’s in a quaint 1880s bluestone former orphanage with a homey entrance hall complete with a coat rack. It boasts two indoor dining spaces, an outdoor area with direct views of the pass, and a private dining room tucked away upstairs.
Behind it all are owners and partners, Rebecca Baker and Mark Hannell with Ottolenghi (London) creds and impressive experience that includes the likes of Bar Liberty and Carlton’s Capitano.
“Big flavours and textures are my first thought when it comes to food, and having the opportunity to showcase Australian ingredients with a fun British twist—in the centre of Melbourne—is an absolute dream,” says Hannell.
The share-style menu is a tight one-pager with plentiful plates and snacky bits, channeling more British than Australian. Signature dishes include the Welsh rarebit crumpets and ramen Scotch eggs, but don’t pass up on the raw and pickled veg with a French onion dip you’ll want to scrape clean off the plate (more on this soon).
Plus, the chargrilled cauliflower is practically the whole vegetable on the plate so you won’t leave you hungry, and Reed House’s take on a cacio e pepe with hazelnuts is something to behold.
If it’s your first time, best go the set menu route to try it all—a pretty affordable $75 per person, or $70 for vegos.
Drinks list is cocktail and wine heavy, with three Aussie beers on tap. Ask “what’s in the duck” for the daily-ish spirit or liqueur of choice, usually best to dabble in pre- or post-munch.
Like Hannell says, Reed House is a dream—and they’re only just getting started. Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming action at Reed House including guest chef and winemaker Sunday roasts.
REED HOUSE
Where: 130 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD
When can I go: Tuesday to Friday from 12pm, Saturday from 4:30pm
Tell me more: reedhousemelbourne.com
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Image credit: Reed House | Supplied