It’s a little bit Scandinavian, has a touch of Pastis, and oh so French, yes it’s The Millswyn and what a far cry it is from its predecessor Lynch’s. The once renowned Melbourne dining institution is as new, and while it still retains an elevated sense of style, class and Domain Road sophistication it’s lost that old-world stuffiness.
After hefty renovations, the space is illuminated with natural light and now sports a couple of dining spaces, bars and an intimate post-dinner lounge. The fit out is Scandinavian slash minimalist with a twist of modern French brasserie.
The creative visionary behind the transformation is 21 (young achiever, much?) year-old Davis Yu, his passion – infectious, his inspiration – collected the world over.
Seated on the front verandah, (with all tables) facing the park, latte in hand, you’ll be transported away to a Parisian street, and easily lose yourself people watching.
Head Chef Nathan Johnson (ex Maze Grill) interprets classic French flavours using fresh local produce. With a brunch, lunch, dinner and a carte du jour menu, dishes to try include the Port Phillip Bay Snapper; slow braised lamb navarin; and the whole roast Thirlmere chicken. Not to mention the healthy Super Food Salad for ladies who lunch, and the charcuterie selection.
There’s a focus on top class wines, cocktails, and it’s the first Melbourne restaurant to serve Estrella Inedit, a beer crafted by Catalan Spanish Chef Ferran Adria, Juli Soler and the El Bulli sommelier team in Spain to accompany food.
Put simply, j’aime beaucoup.
The Millswyn
131-133 Domain Road, South Yarra
T: (03) 9866 5627
Latest news: Jahdre assumed the helm in The Millswyn’s kitchen in September of 2011, immediately introducing a modern Australian menu influenced by Continental technique. Born in Bermuda, raised in the US and England, Jahdre draws on experience gained in five-star hotels and Michelin starred restaurants. His culinary career has taken him around the world of restaurants and luxury hotels, starting work at London’s Savoy Hotel, the Michelin stared Hotel Du Lac in Hertfordshire, L’Escargot, The Picasso Room in Soho and as Sous Chef at the ground breaking Harvey Nicholls Oxo Tower Restaurant and Bar.
