$3 Oysters and Martini Mischief: Midweek Done Right at Arlechin
Down a shadowy laneway behind Grossi Florentino lies one of Melbourne’s worst-kept secrets: Arlechin, the late-night bar that’s made a name for itself with impeccable drinks, rich snacks, and zero pretense. Now, just in time for the cooler months, they’ve added another reason to squeeze into a booth or hover at the bar: $3 oysters. In this economy? Say less.
Arlechin
Every Wednesday from 5:30pm, Arlechin is serving up freshly shucked Appellation Sydney Rock Oysters for just three bucks a pop. The catch? There isn’t one, except you’ll want to get in quick before they sell out. These oysters come direct from Australia’s Oyster Coast, so they’re not only fresh, but proper pedigree.
There are two options: au naturel with lemon and vinaigrette, or Florentine style, warmed through with parmesan, spinach and cream. Order both, obviously.
But it wouldn’t be Arlechin without a drink pairing worth writing home about. The cocktail list takes cues from the bar’s Italo roots, with a cheeky nod to the snack that shares its name: the Puttanesca Martinez, made with chilli gin, sweet vermouth, caper brine and tomato oil, is bold, briny, and slightly unhinged (in the best way). The Dirty Pink Gibsonleans theatrical, made with red onion vodka and topped with a pickled onion. Both sit at $24 and come with enough personality to match the crowd.
Prefer something simpler? There’s a glass of Elvio Cogno’s Nascetta from Piedmont ($23), Menabrea Lager ($13), or a neat pour of 15-year Caol Ila for those playing the long game ($18/$36 depending on how deeply you’re committing).
Arlechin doesn’t take bookings. It never has and probably never will. That’s part of the charm. It opens Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm to 1am, and the laneway entrance off Mornane Place only adds to the allure.
Whether you're escaping the office or delaying dinner plans, this midweek oyster frenzy is an excuse to linger a little longer in the city, and drink something strong while you do. Consider it Melbourne’s answer to hump day malaise, shucked, stirred and served with style.
Down a shadowy laneway behind Grossi Florentino lies one of Melbourne’s worst-kept secrets: Arlechin, the late-night bar that’s made a name for itself with impeccable drinks, rich snacks, and zero pretense. Now, just in time for the cooler months, they’ve added another reason to squeeze into a booth or hover at the bar: $3 oysters. In this economy? Say less.
