Waterside smorgasbord

Now that every other city in Australia has turned its attention to laneways and basements in which to hide its hippest spaces, our bars and restaurants are seemingly seeking sunshine.

One of the city’s newest dining precincts is South Wharf Promenade, with eating and drinking venues dotted along the Yarra in restored heritage warehouses.

And one man has doubled-up, opening both a Japanese restaurant and Euro-influenced bistro. Paul Mathis, who’s back with a vengeance having already opened Firechief, Henry and the Fox and Goldilocks in various parts of the city, has brought in the big guns for Akachochin (named after the red paper lanterns that hang outside traditional Japanese izakayas) and The Sharing House.

Along with a respectable list of more than 50 types of sake, you’ll find Kengo Hiromatsu, previously head sushi chef at Nobu, in charge of the contemporary Japanese menu at the former; Mark Briggs, who’s arrived direct from Vue de monde, is re-creating classic dishes, including the likes of lobster thermidor and moules marinières, at the latter.

Take a stroll down the promenade, you’ll fancy what you find. 

Akachochin
33 South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne, (03) 9245 9900

The Sharing House
35 South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne, (03) 9245 9800

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