Stepping into Another Era: Mill Place Merchants

Walking into Mill Place Merchants is like stepping into another world. The entrance, a red monogrammed door, leads you into what appears to be an old dressing room. Mannequins, rolls of fabric, and a vintage sewing machine pay homage to the area’s garment workers. But the pièce de résistance is a grand, gilt-framed mirror at the end of the passageway. This isn’t just for checking your reflection—it’s a hidden entrance to the bar. Once through, you’re transported to a cosy yet opulent room filled with Victorian wingback chairs, chaise longues, and leather Chesterfields.

The building itself is a slice of history, formerly the Flemington Meat Preserving Company. Its original bluestone walls and exposed wooden beams have been lovingly restored, complemented by golden crane-patterned wallpaper and a curated collection of antique furniture. Local designers Jane Rosback and Ormes Sawyer have sprinkled their magic throughout, adding vintage rugs, a pianola, and a chess set to complete the look.

The heart and soul of Mill Place Merchants is its owner, Paawan Engineer. With years of industry experience (Cuff Melbourne, Rosewood Beijing, Hyatt Regency Mumbai), he brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for hospitality. Engineer aims to create a space where everyone feels like an old friend. The service is top-notch, making you feel instantly at home.

The menu at Mill Place Merchants is both playful and sophisticated. It’s presented as a book, complete with photographs of classic cocktails. And let’s talk about the espresso martini, aptly named "Wake Me Up and Fuck Me Up"—a cheeky nod to its dual-purpose nature. The snacks are just as delightful, with a curated menu that fits perfectly with the venue’s theme. Devilled eggs, classic bikini sandwiches, and champagne fried chicken are just a few of the highlights.

Drinks at Mill Place Merchants are the brainchild of award-winning Italian mixologist, Giancarlo Mancino. The menu pays homage to cocktail masters of old, featuring concoctions that are as historically rich as they are delicious. The Opera, a tantalising mix of gin, Dubonnet, mandarin liqueur, and orange bitters, takes you back to the glamorous days of 1920s opera houses. The Pink Lady, a delicate blend of gin, applejack, lime, and grenadine, is a nod to the sophisticated ladies who once graced Melbourne’s high society events.

The Treacle, with its dark rum, orange bitters, Angostura Bitters, and apple juice, evokes the comforting warmth of a Victorian winter, while the Russian Spring Punch, with vodka, raspberry liqueur, blackcurrant liqueur, and sparkling wine, is a burst of fresh, fruity fun. The Monte Carlo, featuring rye whisky, Dom Benedictine, and Angostura Bitters, pays tribute to the high rollers of the roaring twenties, and the Juschu, a mix of tequila, lime, honey, and Angostura Bitters, brings a touch of exotic spice to the mix. The Millionaire, a blend of bourbon, dry curaçao, absinthe, lemon, raspberry syrup, and aquafaba, is the epitome of indulgence, a drink fit for the lavish lifestyles of the rich and famous.

Local Victorian producers also shine, with high-end wines, champagne by the glass, and a selection of beers and spirits. The drinks menu is a journey through time and taste, a celebration of cocktail history and Melbourne’s vibrant bar scene.

Chef Deepak Mishra brings over two decades of culinary expertise to the table, crafting a menu that offers both small bites and shareable items. His creations are a modern twist on traditional dishes, incorporating native Australian ingredients to create something truly unique. The devilled eggs, topped with Yarra Valley salmon roe and salt and vinegar crisps, are a delightful start, while the jamon de Serrano croquettes, served with lemon and green garlic aioli and saltbush crisps, are a burst of flavour in every bite.

The classic bikini sandwich, filled with mortadella, mozzarella, and bush tomato relish, is a nostalgic nod to the simple pleasures of life, while the mini steak onion and ale pies, with mustard, honey, and horseradish aioli, are a hearty, comforting treat. The Whittlesea burrata bruschetta, with Mount Zero extra virgin olive oil, greens, and smoked chilli emulsion, is a fresh, vibrant dish that celebrates the best of local produce. The local smoked salmon gravlax, served with horseradish, crème fraîche, Geraldton wax, and rye crisp, is a refined, elegant dish that perfectly balances flavour and texture. And of course, the champagne fried chicken, with blue cheese and bourbon dip, celery, radicchio, and parmesan snow, is a decadent indulgence that’s sure to satisfy.

Live acoustic music sets the tone early in the evening with smooth jazz and blues classics. As the night progresses, expect energetic swing tunes and soulful renditions from classic crooners. It’s the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night.

In Mill Place Merchants, guests will sense the building's rich history while experiencing the classic speakeasy vibe. It’s a hidden gem that embraces the past while offering a fresh and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night nightcap, Mill Place Merchants promises an evening of timeless charm and modern sophistication. Cheers to that!