Bar Sala

THE VERDICT

Think of the best dinner party you’ve ever attended. We bet the night drew on effortlessly, the food was delicious, the music took over, and nobody wanted to leave. That feeling is exactly what Bar Sala—named for the Spanish word for living room—is built around. On Mollison Street in Abbotsford, it pairs a proper dining room with a dedicated music room that allows you to find your own rhythm between the two.

Head Chef Cam Williams, previously at Lene in Richmond, has crafted a Mediterranean-inspired menu that’s wood-fired and ingredient-led. The always-on menu moves from small plates to the tune of oysters with rhubarb mignonette and fried sourdough with ricotta and anchovies, to desserts including marscapone pannacotta with sweet vermouth poached quince and bombolini (Italian doughnuts with citrus curd. There's also a substantial weekly lineup of specials: Tuesday pasta night, Wednesday steak night, Thursday pizza night. For those happy to surrender their decision making to the kitchen, the $85pp chef’s menu is the obvious choice.

Central to Bar Sala’s DNA is the music room. It’s a destination in its own right, with a carefully curated vinyl collection and a programme of Friday and Saturday night DJ sets that create the perfect excuse to settle in for the long haul with a well-made drink. Things are quieter throughout the week, when you’ll find a record turning unobtrusively while the kitchen works its magic.  

Whether you come for the music room, the dining room, or both, Bar Sala is there to give you the evening you’re seeking. Reserve your place here.

Imagery: Heart Media | Supplied