Reine Rules the Kingdom in Melbourne's Restaurant Scene

From the outset, Reine & La Rue challenges expectations. The space itself is a masterful blend of old and new, respecting the neo-gothic architecture while infusing modern design elements that exude comfort and style. This isn't an easy feat in a city known for its eclectic and often avant-garde approach to food and dining. Melbourne, with its unique mix of traditional cafes and boundary-pushing eateries, sets a high bar for new entrants in the restaurant scene.

The menu reflects a similar blend of tradition and innovation. Beginning with a variety of oysters, each slurp is a testament to the freshness and quality of local produce. The beef tartare, accompanied by smoked bone marrow and onion croustillants, is a dish that balances rich flavours with delicate textures, showing off the kitchen's skill and attention to detail.

The scallop gratin is a dish of understated elegance, where the fusion of caper & tarragon butter with the scallops creates a harmonious balance. The Corner Inlet calamari, a standout dish, is elevated with café de Paris butter, demonstrating how traditional ingredients can be reimagined to create something novel and exciting.

The 600g O'Connor dry-aged ribeye is a testament to the quality of Victorian produce and the skills of the chefs. It's a dish that respects the ingredient's natural flavours while enhancing them through expert cooking and thoughtful accompaniments like the pommel purée with bone marrow and jus gras, and the wood-roasted zucchini.

Dessert was a delightful surprise, with the Jersey Milk soft serve offering a playful and indulgent end to the meal. The combination of mango, macadamia praline, and elderflower in the soft serve is a nod to both tradition and modern tastes.

Reine & La Rue is a wonderful addition to Melbourne's dynamic dining scene. It respects the legacy of its grand setting while boldly forging a new path. The hype surrounding its opening was indeed substantial, but after experiencing the ambiance, the service, and most importantly, the food, it's clear that Reine & La Rue is not merely riding the wave of initial excitement; it is setting a new standard in the city's vibrant and ever-evolving restaurant landscape.