Brunswick Mess Hall

Did you know that there is a restaurant in Melbourne that is relaxed and classy, with a fantastic food and beverage menu, stellar service, oh and it allows dinner reservations? Did you? Did you?

It sounds too good to be true, but by golly gosh, Brunswick Mess Hall quite literally has it all.

Having been a regular patron of Murmur, which is owned by the same people, I couldn't miss the opportunity to get my cocktail fix with a side of Asian fare. And boy was it impressive.

While it might not seem visually striking at street level, once you enter this Brunswick gem, you feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney Road. The animal-centric features are enchanting, as are the staff that greet you.

On this occasion, my fellow cocktail regular (Karin) joined me for dinner and drinks. Arriving nice and early (just past 6pm), we were offered the option of a table in the dining area or a seat at a shared table in the bar area - we chose the shared table.

Being a party of two, there was only so much we could order - I will not make that mistake again.

I have never eaten White Bait before, at least I don't think I have, but it was perhaps the most captivating dish of the night. What a fantastic sharing plate?! Move over beer and nuts, give me a cocktail and white bait any day.

The Gyoza felt like a 'must have' and it didn't disappoint. And though we could have easily ordered everything on the menu, I am never one to turn down a nice piece of meat, so our final choice was Yakiniku - seared beef with spicy tomato salad. The beef was delicious and tender, and as I'm somewhat of a tomato addict, it really couldn't have been a more perfect meal. (For me, anyway.)

The staff were amazingly attentive and affable. There is nothing nicer that being made to feel like you belong. And belong we did - our dinner lasted for hours upon hours. We moved from our share table to the 'lounge' area and the flow of conversation (and cocktails) didn't stop. Clearly the signs of a great venue (and friendship).

Brunswick Mess Hall is well and truly a place I want to visit again, particularly with many friends, just to ensure I get a chance to try everything on the menu.

- Dani

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This post originally included some photos from my second visit to Brunswick Mess Hall, however, there is now one post for each visit. 

To find out about our second visit, during which we devoured the fantastic Banquet option, please see the Brunswick Mess Hall (Part 2) post. Thanks.

Summary

Name: The Brunswick Mess Hall

Cuisine: Asian/Bar

Price: $$

Location: 400 Sydney Rd, Brunswick VIC 3056

Map: