Tucked away behind the Arts Centre and just a short stroll from the Malthouse Theatre, Bar Bouni is a great little find in Southbank. Sitting at the bottom of a new build, the space feels modern but still warm and inviting. There is a lot of thought in the design and it genuinely feels like you are dining in someone’s beautiful home rather than a restaurant, which makes it an easy place to settle into for the evening.
The menu offers a great variety of ‘Lebo-terranean’ dishes mixing Lebanese and Mediterranean flavours cleverly. The menu isn’t overwhelming and designed to share, with dishes placed in a way that lets you try a range of flavours across the menu. We were recommended three appetisers, a main and two sides for two people, with a cheeky dessert to finish, and it was definitely plenty.
To start, we shared the flat bread which was delicate, flavoursome and packed with beautiful spices and herbs. This is a must order. The stracciatella was another winner, paired with crisp bread, while the fried chicken was subtly spiced, succulent on the inside and crispy on the outside, finished with a creamy aioli. A great way to kick things off.
For mains, it was a toss up between the Harissa chicken, which looked incredible based on how quickly our neighbours were eating it, and the porchetta. I can never go past crispy crackling and this absolutely delivered. Thin and crunchy on the outside, the porchetta was juicy and full of flavour from the stuffed herbs. With sides of carrots and roasted potatoes, which were also so good, we were very happy and comfortably full. We finished with the chocolate mousse, which was a bit heavier than expected but still delicious, especially with the fresh citrus cream. Definitely one to share if you have already had a big meal.
The wine list is solid with a good selection available by the glass. I had the peach spritz, which was refreshing and not too sweet and added a nice freshness to the meal overall.
Overall, Bar Bouni is a great place to visit whether you are heading to the theatre, catching up with friends or simply looking for a relaxed but memorable meal. With its welcoming space, well considered menu and flavours that really deliver, it is the kind of restaurant you leave already planning a return visit.
Bar Bouni, 153 Sturt Street Southbank 3006
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