El Tumi

The Verdict

Shake up your palate (yep, we got fancy) with Melbourne’s newest Peruvian cocktail bar and restaurant. Brought to life by the Meza family, El Tumi is all about sharing authentic Peruvian cuisine, which means no fancy fusion or any Melbournesque twists.

El Tumi shares its newly converted Richmond space with Latino bar, Station 59, and has a simple menu inspired by memories of grandma and hearty home-cooking. If you’re not so familiar with Peruvian food, just know you’re in for a treat, with taste explosions packed with spices, native legumes, and loads of potato.

On the menu is handmade pasta with braised chicken (or if you love the lingo it translates to Tallarin a Mano Con Guiso De Pollo)...pasta with braised chicken works too. There’s also a very saucy Aji De Gallina, which is chilli chicken casserole with a side of rice and potatoes. And for dessert, try the Peruvian pumpkin doughnuts.

Buttt if you’re not feeling like a ceviche (totes judging you), you can also take up a classic chicken parma at the bar with a side of crispy chips. Or head north with an all American hot dog complete with mustard, ketchup, and a touch lot of jalapeno salsa.

For drinks the Station 59 crew offer bottled craft beer (also on tap ) as well as a range of signature cocktails to get you vibin’ their Latino salsa nights. Make sure you order the pisco sour—it's a cracker. 

Doors open Monday to Sunday.

Image Credit: Griffin Simm