O'Connell's

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Partystar Review

O'Connell's is an upmarket traditional pub located on a quiet, tree lined street corner in South Melbourne which is renowned for its fine food and simply must be visited. You can dine in the elegant dining room, or in the main bar or better still, grab a table outside on a fine evening. There is an excellent wine list and the bar staff provide efficient and friendly service.

Outdoor Area / Beer Garden

A breezy courtyard awaits.

Lush Green

Readers' Reviews

A visit to this splendid piece of Victorian architecture in picturesque South Melbourne, with a history that oozes the golden era of the post goldrush 19th century prosperity, will set the mood for a fine dining experience or, if it is your want, a welcoming drink at the friendly well apportioned bar or languidly drink, el fresco on the lawn.

I was fortunate to share a glorious lunch with an equally glorious lady friend. O'Connells is a style leader as a "foodie pub"; the interior seems to be 3 rooms of continuous restaurant with a traditional bar attached. The decor is tasteful and timeless with carpeted floors, upholstered chairs, complimented by muted, relaxing decor where you feel that you might be at home in your lounge room - a welcome change to contemporary minimalistic decor where you feel that you are intruding into a zen Buddhist temple.

The menu is thoughtfully presented to satisfy most patrons' tastes from the standard New Yorker steaks (yum) through the exotic tastes from Europe and the Orient and including vegetarian delights (which I am assured by my partner-in-decadence is important and tasty). Most importantly the service is great and the fare is more than reasonable for such a dining experience.

A footnote: the experience was so good, that I was easily convinced to retire to the bar and "convive" with some fellow diners for an hour or four. Needless to say "she" wasn't overly impressed. Nevertheless, we both agreed that it was worth the effort (and headache) and might have to give it another try or 14.

Ken Fargher, St Kilda, 03/04

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