I realise it’s been some months since I moved to South Melbourne – 6 months in fact (how time flies when you’re having fun!), but I am still yet to explore so many areas that are within a stone’s throw of my apartment. Last night I was introduced to one of these areas; Bridport Street, Albert Park.
Barely 5 minutes from my door lies this treasure trove of undiscovered stores full of fashion, homewares and glorious place to eat! How could I have not known about this!!

We started with dinner at Mediterraneo, a steak and seafood restaurant located towards the Albert Road end of Bridport Street. Seated by the window on a gorgeous evening, my companions and I started with sparkling mineral water and a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc (Seresin) in honour of a recent visit there by the birthday girl (not me, February is a popular month!)

Assorted breads arrived (not to be consumed by this celiac but they looked great, appeared they served white and rye – it’s always nice to have a choice) and we ordered from the quite extensive menu. Both my friends ordered the chargrilled seafood kebab served on paella rice with seasonal vegetables while I went with the fish of the day (Atlantic Salmon) served on an olive oil mash with seasonal vegetables.

The meals arrived relatively quickly and were presented perfectly. Everything was wonderful (as evidenced by me eating everything on my plate – Miss T did comment ‘Was I hungry?’) but I am a firm believer in finishing if its good!! The salmon was indeed spectacular and given that my recent salmon experiences are from the freezer or a can (give me a break, I live alone and I’m a busy girl) I did enjoy every single amazing morsel.

Both girls also thoroughly enjoyed their kebabs and two glasses of wine later we were all feeling rather content. But then, the dessert menu arrived and suddenly you find room you didn’t know you had before! Being fashionable (one must think of ones figure barely 2 weeks before fashion week!), we elected to share the chocolate flourless cake with chocolate anglaise and King Island cream and the serving was indeed more than enough for three. The cake was smooth and rich, very decadent and just the thing to end an amazing meal.

The staff were perfectly attentive, the vibe intimate and the music levels attuned to the fact that people like to converse over dinner. We finished with a walk along Bridport Street, educating me to the stores there and what treasures I could find within when I return during opening hours!

Mediterreaneo is located at 116 Bridport Street, Albert Park 3206 9690 5155 or visit www.mediterraneo.com.au
Image thanks to Mediterraneo