Vietnamese eating-house St Cloud has arrived in Hawthorn, offering honest food with a focus on locally sourced seasonal produce and fresh, modern flavours.

Located on Burwood Road in Hawthorn, St Cloud’s menu pays homage to authentic Vietnamese recipes, paired with a healthy and contemporary philosophy to suit the diversity of Melbournian diners. The majority of dishes are gluten-free, and ‘clean’ and vegan-friendly options are available across the menu, which also proudly showcases the best in local produce, supporting Victorian farmers and suppliers.

Formerly a multi-level furniture store, the unique St Cloud space was created by Interior Designer Elle Critchley (Lady Carolina, Feast of Merit). The downstairs section bursts with a bustling hawker-style energy, while upstairs reveals a calmer sanctuary, complete with the perfect summer rooftop garden. St Cloud is the brainchild of an absolute hospitality dream team. Harbouring 30 years of experience between them, James Klapanis (Quaff), Shaunn Anderson (Feast of Merit), and Head Chef Franky Pham (Fest of Merit, K.O.T.O and Pots n Pans in Vietnam) have joined forces to realise the St Cloud dream.

Lunchtime diners can enjoy a range of tried and true favourites, such as Pho (beef, chicken, vegetarian), the Banh Mi baguette of the day, and Rice Paper Rolls with Beef & betel leaf, Prawn and pork belly, or fried tofu. Weekend breakfasts at St Cloud offer a selection of unique dishes straight from the market.

St Cloud’s creativity really shines with the dinner menu. Entrees include Banh Knot (turmeric and coconut pancakes with pork belly and shrimp) and BBQ Scallops (with charred spring onion, black bean, and crisp lap xuong dressing). Larger plates are perfect for sharing with a group of friends, such as the Vung Tau (grilled organic chicken with watercress, chilli and mustard vinaigrette), and Spiced Braised Eggplant, served with tofu and mushrooms in a clay pot.

The solid cocktail list makes choosing a drink a difficult task, with a number of classic favourites given a Vietnamese twist. Our top picks are the Viet Express (house-spiced rum, drip coffee and coconut milk, garnished with candied back sesame), and the Son Tra Colada (hibiscus-infused golden rum, pineapple syrup and coconut cream, served in a fresh coconut). In keeping with the St Cloud philosophy, the wine and craft beer list remains predominantly Australian. The non-alcoholic drinks are just as tempting: St Ali coffee is pumped out with gusto, and Greene St Juice Co. cold-press juices – plus a variety of clean homemade slushies – will align with your “I’ll be healthier this year” New Year’s resolution.

St Cloud

644 Burwood Road

Hawthorn East VIC 3123

Opening Hours:

Tue – Fri: 11.30am – late

Sat – Sun: 10am – late

www.stcloudeatinghouse.com.au

About The Author

Amanda Wong

Amanda is constantly on the trail of the next life-changing beauty product. She loves Melbourne's vibrant music scene, taking any opportunity to soak up and discover local talent. You will find her in any pocket of this great city, washing down great conversation with a strong coffee. Follow her musings on Instagram: @amungdavong

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