Menu of Hemingway's Wine Room in East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Menu Overview

Hemingway's Wine Room, located conveniently at 150 Wellington Parade in East Melbourne, offers a distinguished dining experience that beautifully marries fine dining with an inviting and warm atmosphere. This restaurant excels in presenting a thoughtfully curated menu that emphasizes flavourful, high-quality ingredients, perfectly suited for those who appreciate both exceptional cuisine and an impressive wine selection.

The menu is a celebration of refined dishes, featuring standout highlights such as the Lamb, the exquisitely balanced Zucchini Terrine, the delicate and flavourful Quail Entrée, and the decadently cooked Wagyu. The inclusion of unique offerings like the Rabbit Entrée and the creative Duck 2 Ways exemplifies Hemingway's strong emphasis on culinary craftsmanship and innovation. For sides, simple yet elegant options like Potato Lyonnaise and Broccolini with garlic butter and toasted almonds complement the mains beautifully.

Patrons have consistently noted the meticulous presentation and portioning of dishes, which align perfectly with a fine dining philosophy—small, artfully composed servings that focus on quality over quantity. As highlighted by the gluten-conscious diner Russell Costello, the kitchen is accommodating and attentive to dietary needs, ensuring a curated experience without compromising the taste or aesthetics of the courses.

Particularly noteworthy are the bar snacks and starters: the House Charcuterie and Pork & Veal Terrine with kaiserfleisch bacon and apple chutney offer a delicious introduction, although some feedback suggests there is room to enhance the curating of meats on the charcuterie board for even greater satisfaction. The oysters, served with lemon and mignonette, receive widespread acclaim for their freshness and affordability, especially when paired with the champagne specials during happy hour—making them a must-try indulgence.

While the restaurant delivers consistently polished service, friendly staff, and a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, some guests have called for a deeper intensity in flavour to match the elevated pricing. Nevertheless, the overall dining experience remains delightful, especially when indulging in the wine pairings meticulously selected to accompany the menu.

Hemingway's Wine Room strikes a refined balance between a relaxed brasserie and an elegant fine dining destination, ideal for a special meal or a wine tasting evening. Whether you’re drawn by their standout duck leg, the perfectly cooked Wagyu, or the vibrant terrines, this restaurant offers a memorable gastronomic journey underscored by warm hospitality and an inviting environment.