Canary Club
Editorial
After the success of Hairy Canary, sister restaurant extraordinaire, comes Canary Club, a Barcelona inspired tapas bar where the menu is simple and fresh and the cocktails oh-so cool. Split over two levels, the upstairs mezzanine level is designed for lounging with leather chocolate-coloured day beds and an ambience of pure indulgence. Downstairs it's all dark wood and white walls with a six metre bar flanked by wooden tables and contrasting white chairs.
Residing in the kitchen are Executive Chef Steve Watson, Kris Malcolm and co-owner Kristine Becker, creating a Spanish/Mediterranean style menu with a uniquely Australian approach. Feast on montaditos, traditional Basque-style small tapas mounted on bread: try the rabbit rillettes with cornichons and pickled cherries, or the pinchos, hot tapas served on skewers such as the spiced venison kebab with tahini yoghurt dressing. Alternatively choose a heartier option like corn-fed roast baby chicken on a warm salad of chickpea, chorizo and tomato with zhug (a Yemen-style spice). For dessert choose the sweet tapas plate. Cocktails are the go here with cool and refreshing options such as the sour Spaniard, consisting of cachaco, licor 43 and lemon, however a concise Australian wine selection is also available with all varieties by the glass, including a Spanish red of the week.
Veda Wickens, January 2006
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Amanda Roberts
December 13, 2006
Low key and intimate, Canary Club is one of Melbourne's stylish and understated bars.
Smart
December 18, 2006
What a little gem. Head up the side street to arrive here and enjoy a tantalising selection of tapas whilst lounging on comfy circular leather couches. Delicious selection of wines to be consumed in inviting & relaxed surrounds. Great for a glass of bubbles and nibbles to start your night of celebrations!
A
March 11, 2008
Great friendly staff and atmosphere. Music was a bit loud downstairs at least but still ok to chat.
elle
November 15, 2008
Canary Club - what a disappointment: Rude staff trying to make you feel unwelcome and kick you out an hour before closing time. Ordered Bombay gin & tonic in a short glass and it comes in a tall glass, after inquiring I am told (with attitude) 'well, we can put it in a short glass if you want but it's the same size'. Staff were having knock off drinks and not serving tables well before advertised close time, we had to interrupt their conversation amongst themselves to order a drink to which they sniggered at our request. We were there with another couple, who we shouted because we wanted to have a nice night with them and we were happy to spend $150+ on the drinks - it was a shame the vibe was ruined by the staff who made us feel so uncomfortable.
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