For two decades, a small dining room on Little Collins Street has quietly witnessed first dates turn into marriages. Last month, Bar Lourinhã celebrated 20 years of operation in Melbourne. Alongside other notable venues like MoVida, Bar Lourinhã helped introduce a casual, shared-plate dining scene to the city. And if you’ve never been, here’s what you can expect at this beloved Mediterranean restaurant.
Bar Lourinhã
Chef Matt McConnell and partner Jo Gamvros first came up with the structure of the menu on their travels in 2005, and that format has been largely the same ever since. The Iberian and Mediterranean-inspired menu is ever evolving, but you’ll see some core elements, like two seafood, two vegetarian and two meat options. You’ll also find daily specials, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Start with some tapas like kingfish tostada or jamon croqueta. Then, move on to the larger share plates, or raciones, like spiced chickpeas and spinach or spiced lamb rice and turmeric butter. Finish up on a sweet note with a treat like alfajores. Pair your meal with some wine, beer or cocktails while you’re there. Or, pop by on Mondays for BYO, with $25 corkage.
Throughout the week, you’ll also find a three-course set lunch menu for $40 per person. Come back on Sundays for paella, and try to time it with the live Latino music performances, which take place on the last Sunday of the month.
Bar Lourinhã is open:
- 12pm to 9pm on Sunday and Monday
- 12pm to 11pm on Tuesday and Wednesday
- 12pm to late on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Find them at 37 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000.
