Melbourne Eats: Grill Americano / Smith St Bistrot

Grill Americano

With Grill Americano, restaurateur Chris Lucas wasn’t looking to create another Italian restaurant. Melbourne had plenty of those already. Instead, his Italian steakhouse is a reimagining of the grills and brasseries prevalent in Melbourne throughout the ’60s and into the early ’80s. The menu’s centrepiece, though, is the grill section and its bistecca alla Fiorentina. A star of Tuscan cuisine, here it comes in the form of a 1.2-kilogram T-bone cooked over charcoal and doused in sea salt and rosemary.

Location: 101 Collins Street Melbourne 3000

Email: reservations@grillamericano.com

Phone: (03) 8616 8010

Website: grillamericano.com

Smith St Bistrot

Designer Sarah Townson of Anthology has warmed up the exposed-brick interior with fresh moss, antique mirrors, gothic chandeliers and burgundy banquettes, which line the wall opposite the bar. It’s stocked with all the makings of a classic Parisian cocktail spot (think dirty Martinis and French 75s) and an extensive selection of French and local wine.

Location: 300 Smith Street Collingwood 3066

Email: info@smithstbistrot.com.au

Phone: (03) 9419 2202

Website: smithstbistrot.com.au