Over 40 years ago, Gene Wilder changed the world. He released Willy Wonka, a movie that’s still played today over and over again. What makes it so special isn’t just the chocolate. It’s the theatre, the passion, and the push to make the impossible possible. He takes us on a journey of adventure and intrigue, and ignites our wildest imagination.
French Israeli chef Rony Pariety, the brains behind Shelly, not only rivals this iconic film, but brings it to life.
Shelly is the visionary sibling that emerged after Shelanous, the Port Melbourne iteration that wowed the city with its multisensory dining experience. She may be a baby, but she is already cracking with mystery and a whole lot of cheek.
To explain a dining experience at Shelly is like putting yourself as the epicentre character in an Alice in Wonderland movie. Nothing is ever as it seems. A door is not a door. A box of popcorn is laden with surprises. It’s extravagant, jovial, and keeps you guessing the entire time.
Shelly follows a strict script. A sharp 7pm start, with four acts that denote our notorious Melbourne seasons. Drink your tanning oil in Summer while dining “Under the Sea.” Hear the crunch of autumn leaves, smell toasted bark, while devouring velvety mushrooms. Munch on colourful crudites while sitting in farmers hats in Spring. And finish with a nail-biting ending at Rony’s spectacular Winter Wonderland. It’s a finale of drama, music, fire and flames, and edible snow. The radiating energy is infectious, and you end up with a sore jaw from a non stop grin all evening.
(PSA: there is an intermission, but certainly not the time for a toilet break. Instead you may find yourself sinking down shots of flaming arak while your waitstaff dance on tables.)
The delicious irony is that despite the script, the evening is largely unscripted. The experience is dictated by you and the people beside you. You’re encouraged to be daring. Strike up a conversation with the stranger next to you. Raise a glass with those around you. Giggle childishly together as you witness the magic with your very own eyes.
Rony isn’t Willy Wonka and Shelly isn’t a chocolate factory. He is a real life culinary genius behind an unforgettable adult theme park, that is beyond your wildest imagination.
What we’re Addicted to: The most unique, memorable, extravagant experience of our lives, from food to music to theatre to magic.
What we need to be more Addicted: A bar next door to continue the festivities once the show ends.
Shelly
Shelly is open Sunday–Thursday at 7pm
