Libertine
Editorial
Libertine isn't quite the den of free-thinking bohemia you might expect, but it's not far off. It's a small restaurant, housed in an old high-ceilinged Victorian building. The decor is rather fun, as if the place were much larger and grander than it is. There are rich fabric banners on the walls, chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and big mirrors on the walls. Flaunting a combination of cosy and self-confident, the effect is very attractive and there is a real enthusiasm for dining in the French style.
The menu changes seasonally, with daily specials and a lunch menu that is adjusted weekly. In Nick Creswick's capable hands, classic dishes are sometimes modified or slightly adapted to bring them into line with contemporary ideas. Begin with the terrine of the day or the mushroom pithiver, a pasty which is served on a bed of braised lentils. For your main course, try a classic eye fillet with bone marrow or the rabbit cooked two ways - confit leg and saddle en crepinette. The roast duck for two is a great way to get close over the delectable rich flavours. Wine is notably good here thanks to part-owner Zoe Ladyman's excellent palate and knowledge, making Libertine a great place to explore lesser known French wines. Lunch at Libertine is such good value; it's a steal at $29.50 for two courses and a glass of wine, or $36.50 for three.
Rita Erlich, June 2008
User Feedback
NaomiS
October 04, 2006
I'd go to this restaurant even if it were on Mars, the food is that good. The duck with quince & chestnut is to die for, and the leek souffle a lovely way to start a meal. The wine list is fantastic, and if the very helpful staff suggest a suitable drop for your meal, take their advice - you won't go wrong.
Andrea
December 21, 2007
Libertine occupies a gorgeous space in the up and coming North Melbourne area. The ambience of the restaurant is terrific - you feel at home as soon as you walk in. It's a small place, so book ahead. It was a birthday, so the 4 of us did the tasting menu with matched wines. The pace was leisurely and the food interesting and unusual, and it was great trying things one would not usually order. I am looking forward to gathering 10 friends together to do their roast suckling pig feast in 2008
Phil
March 05, 2008
With a beautiful ambiance, the meals are rich but not extraordinarily expensive. A great occassion restaurant or for a romantic dinner.
Madhu
June 02, 2008
I had one of my best nights out here recently. The service was wonderful Richard, the waiter, was among the best I have ever had - and no he didn't introduce himself by name, thank god. Definitely plan a couple of hours and do the food and wine degustation, with different wines for every course, including cheese and dessert. The food was wonderful and portions didn't leave us too full, and the wine was very sensitively matched. Beautiful atmosphere. Highly, highly recommended.
Your Feedback
4 User reviews (add yours)